On a cold November morning in 1861, Julia Ward Howe awoke in her room at Willard's Hotel in Washington, D.C., with verses forming in her mind. She had visited Union Army camps the previous day, witnessing thousands of soldiers preparing for battle while singing "John Brown's Body." Now, in the pre-dawn darkness, words came to her with unusual clarity and force. Rising quietly so as not to disturb her sleeping childre…
“From the bosom of the devastated earth a voice goes up with our own. Disarm, disarm!”
Neighbourhood:
American Poets, Devotional Poets, Hymn Writers, Political Poets, Women Poets
Emotional landscape: Irony, Sorrow, Spirituality
Sojourner Truth (born Isabella Baumfree, c. 1797 – November 26, 1883) is one of the most compelling and enduring figures in American history. Her journey from enslavement in rural New York to becoming a nationally recognized orator, activist, and symbol of justice is a testament to the power of resilience, faith, and the human spirit. Truth’s life story weaves together the struggles for abolition, women’s rights, and…
“If women want any rights more than they've got, why don't they just take them, and not be talking about it.”
Neighbourhood:
African American Poets, American Poets, Social Justice Poets, Women Poets
Emotional landscape: Anger, Sorrow, Despair
