Considered the first important writer and first black woman published in the United States, Phillis Wheatley was admired by many and forgotten by none. She was born 1753? and was brought here from Africa in 1761 and shortly thereafter became a slave for John and Suzanna Wheatley in Boston. Suzanna noticed Phillis’ talents and quick wit so she educated her. Cultivated her talents. As a result, her work was published in a collection of Poems on Various Subjects (1773) and in some national magazines. Phillis Wheatley later traveled to England, eventually got her freedom and died in poverty.

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