The Story of John Greenleaf Whittier

By: Jenny Phillips

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Synopsis: John Greenleaf Whittier worked tirelessly on his father's farm, making sure he finished the day's work before allowing himself to pen the lines of poetry that filled his mind. Eventually, though a difficult choice, John Greenleaf Whittier risked his budding career as a successful poet, editor, and politician-and his life-to join the unpopular anti-slavery movement. As difficult as the decision was, Whittier knew that "the right must win and that duty must be done at all costs." He dedicated the majority of his life to fighting slavery, and as a result, he lived in poverty most of his life and struggled to care for those he loved. Little did he know the poetry and legacy he left behind would touch the lives of thousands of people for decades after his death.