Frances Ellen Watkins Harper

Definition

Frances Ellen Watkins Harper was an influential African American poet, author, and activist born in 1825, known for her literary works that address issues of race, gender, and social justice. Her writings reflect the struggles of Black Americans in the 19th century and highlight the interconnectedness of women's rights and abolitionism, making her a significant figure in post-Civil War literature and activism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Harper was the first African American woman to publish a short story, titled 'The Two Offers,' which marked a significant achievement in literary history.
2. She was an active participant in the women's suffrage movement and worked closely with prominent figures like Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton.
3. Harper's poem 'Bury Me in a Free Land' expresses her deep desire for freedom and dignity for Black individuals even in death, illustrating her commitment to abolitionist ideals.
4. Throughout her life, Harper used her platform to speak out against racial injustice and advocate for both the rights of women and formerly enslaved people.
5. Her work not only contributed to the literary canon but also served as a powerful tool for social change, inspiring future generations of activists and writers.

Review Questions

• How did Frances Ellen Watkins Harper's literary contributions reflect the social issues of her time?
  • Frances Ellen Watkins Harper's writings vividly depicted the struggles faced by African Americans and women during the 19th century. Her poetry and prose tackled themes of racial inequality, gender discrimination, and social justice, reflecting the urgent need for change. By weaving these social issues into her literature, Harper helped raise awareness and mobilize support for abolitionism and women's rights.
• What role did Frances Ellen Watkins Harper play in connecting the movements for women's rights and abolitionism?
  • Harper was a key figure in bridging the gap between women's rights and abolitionism, emphasizing that both movements were essential to achieving true equality. She actively participated in women's suffrage events while also advocating for the liberation of enslaved people. By speaking at conventions and writing literature that highlighted the intersectionality of race and gender, Harper illustrated how these struggles were deeply intertwined.
• In what ways did Frances Ellen Watkins Harper influence post-Civil War literature and activism among African Americans?
  • Frances Ellen Watkins Harper profoundly influenced post-Civil War literature by providing a voice to African American women writers who followed her. Her works challenged prevailing stereotypes and paved the way for future generations to address racial and gender inequalities through their writing. Additionally, Harper's activism set a precedent for combining literary expression with social justice efforts, encouraging other writers to use their talents to advocate for civil rights and promote social reform.

Related terms

Abolitionism: A movement to end slavery and promote equal rights for all individuals, particularly advocating for the emancipation of enslaved African Americans.

Black Women's Literature: A genre that encompasses the writings of Black women, often exploring themes of identity, resilience, and the impact of racism and sexism on their lives.

Social Reform: Efforts aimed at improving society through advocacy for social justice, including movements focused on abolition, women's suffrage, and civil rights.