Phillis Wheatley

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In 1773, the first book of poetry by an African-American author was published. At just seven years old, Phillis was brought to Massachusetts as a slave and sold to the Wheatley family, where she immersed herself in education, consuming classics and writing poetry on any surface she could find. Her talent sparked controversy, leading to her interrogation in 1772 by prominent Boston figures who doubted that an African-American slave could produce such quality work. The journey to publication was fraught with challenges, as it became evident that no American publisher would take the risk. However, she was eventually recommended to a London publisher, who released her book with an attestation of her authorship, a letter from her master, and a preface requesting the reader's understanding. This edition includes these documents as an appendix, allowing modern readers to appreciate Phillis Wheatley as a poet rather than as property. Her work garnered praise, with George Washington acknowledging her "great poetical talents" and B.B. Thatcher emphasizing the importance of her contributions to history.