Sojourner Truth

An item at American Writers Museum

Sojourner Truth was born a slave in New York. In 1827, the state abolished slavery but her "owner" refused to comply. So, she escaped, saying later that, "I did not run away, I walked away by daylight." Once free, she joined groups focusing on human rights and befriended noted abolitionist William Lloyd Garrison, who eventually published her life story.

Truth made her greatest impact on American society by speaking out against slavery and on behalf of women's rights. Her insightful, powerful words and commanding presence-she was six feet tall-captivated audiences across the United States.

AMERICAN VOICES

An exhibit at American Writers Museum

American writing is distinctive, diverse, and comes in many forms from across the nation. The 100 authors featured here represent the evolution of American writing. Learn more about each writer on the timeline by turning the panels below their portraits. Explore centuries of writing by pulling, turning, and touching the interactive elements on the counter.

This is not meant to be a list of the greatest or most influential writers. Instead, we present authors and works as part of the American story as it grows and changes. Taken together, this rich literary heritage reflects America in all of its complexity: its energy, hope, conflict, disillusionment, and creativity.

American Writers Museum