Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807-1882) was an esteemed American poet and educator whose work remains integral to the fabric of 19th-century American literature. Born in Portland, Maine, Longfellow developed a passion for languages and literature early in life. He attended Bowdoin College, where he later returned as a professor of modern languages. Longfellow's academic pursuits led him to travel extensively through Europe, experiences that profoundly influenced his literary output.

Longfellow's poetry is known for its lyricism and accessibility, capturing the spirit and optimism of his era. Among his most revered works are "Paul Revere's Ride" and "The Song of Hiawatha," the latter reflecting a deep interest in Native American lore. His collection "Poems on Slavery" showed his commitment to social justice, aligning him with the abolitionist cause.

In addition to poetry, Longfellow translated Dante's "Divine Comedy," bringing the classic work to an American audience. His personal life saw both great joy and tragedy, including the tragic death of his first wife, Mary Potter, and later his second wife, Frances Appleton. Despite personal sorrows, Longfellow's contributions to American culture remain monumental, establishing him as one of the nation's most beloved poets.