William Cullen Bryant1794 - 1878

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Thanatopsis

Kindred Spirits

"The father of American poetry" First American to write a body of poetry that

could stand up to European poets Born in Cummington, Massachusetts Was writing poetry at age 9; labeled a

prodigy Worked as a lawyer for 10 years

Achieved literary success with the publication of "Thanatopsis"

Moved to New York City Became an editor and critic (in addition to

being a poet) Was editor of the New York's Evening Post for

almost 50 years In his later years he worked on translations of

Homer's Odyssey and Iliad

He believed that the poet was a teacher of highest moral lessons

His main theme is nature and its effect on people

Influential in politics and religion Supported freedom of speech, social

reforms, and the abolition movement A founder of the Republican party Was a millionaire when he died