2.3: Poet of the Revolution: Phillis Wheatly and American Freedom

Send us Fan MailShe arrived in Boston in the 1760's, was purchased by the wealthy Wheatly family, and went on to become a published, not to mention, accomplished, poet.  She enjoyed an up-close view of the key events leading up to the American Revolution, commemorated many of these events in memorable prose, and traveled to London to secure a publisher for her work.  Amidst it all, she dealt with the scrutiny and doubt of a potential audience who found it hard to believe that a woman who was enslaved could use the English language so eloquently...but she could, she did, and her words spoke for a young nation yearning for its own freedom.  On this episode of History: Beyond the Textbook, we explore poet Phillis Wheatly and the expanding concept of "freedom" in the developing United States.Key PeoplePhillis WheatlyGeorge WhitefieldBenjamin FranklinGeorge WashingtonKey EventsStamp ActBoston MassacreEmancipationWe're back for Season Four of History: Beyond the Textbook!  This season will  focus on the stories of individuals who shaped "America's Federalist Era" in the years roughly 1789-1800.  The first six episodes will release every Tuesday from October 28-December 2, while the second six episodes will be released every Tuesday from February 17-March 24.   Catch up on Season One, "America's Colonial Era," Season Two, "America's Revolution," and Season Three, "America's Crucial Years," wherever you listen to your podcasts!Feel free to contact us with feedback or questions by clicking the "Send Us a Text" link or email us at: [email protected]