African American Poetry From Africa to America Poster

This poster has a poem by Phillis Wheatley (c. 1753 - 1784) titled On Being Brought from Africa to America. Phillis was born in Africa, sold into slavery at the age of seven or eight and was enslaved by the Wheatley family of Boston. Her message in this short poem is: Although she was taken against her will from Africa, she found God - and while others may see slaves as inferior, God is there for them. Unlike most slaves, she received an education and the family supported her interest in writing. She was the first African American to have a book of poetry published (in London), and figures like George Washington praised her work. Phillis was emancipated by the Wheatleys shortly after the publication of her book. She married a poor grocer, lost three children and died in poverty and obscurity at the age of 31.