Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
Biography
Frances Ellen Watkins Harper (1825–1911) was an African American abolitionist, suffragist, poet, and novelist who was one of the first African American women to be published in the United States. Born free in Baltimore, Harper became a powerful voice for abolition, women's suffrage, and temperance. Her novel Iola Leroy, or, Shadows Uplifted (1892) was one of the first novels published by an African American woman and addresses the experience of mixed-race Americans during and after the Civil War. Harper was also a celebrated poet and lecturer whose readings drew large audiences across the country.
Common themes in Frances Ellen Watkins Harper's work
African American Literature
A recurring theme throughout Frances Ellen Watkins Harper's writing.
Abolitionism
A recurring theme throughout Frances Ellen Watkins Harper's writing.
Women's Suffrage
A recurring theme throughout Frances Ellen Watkins Harper's writing.
Mixed-Race Identity
A recurring theme throughout Frances Ellen Watkins Harper's writing.
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Why Frances Ellen Watkins Harper is still read today
Harper was a trailblazer in African American literature and activism. Iola Leroy is a landmark novel that addresses race, identity, and social justice with remarkable courage and literary skill.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Frances Ellen Watkins Harper?
Harper was one of the first published African American women authors, an abolitionist, suffragist, and one of the most important voices of her era.
What is Iola Leroy about?
A mixed-race woman's experience during and after the Civil War, addressing race, identity, and social justice. Read it free on TextStack.
Why is Harper historically important?
She was a pioneer of African American literature and a powerful activist for abolition, women's rights, and temperance.
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