Auteur: Julia Ward Howe

Julia Ward Howe (1819–1910) was a prominent American author, poet, abolitionist, and advocate for social justice, particularly in the arena of women »s suffrage. She is most famously known for writing « The Battle Hymn of the Republic,  » but her contributions to literature and social reform extend well beyond this single work. Born in New York City, she was raised in a well-off household that encouraged her early interest in literature. Howe »s intellectual pursuits led her to publish several collections of poems and travel writings before the outbreak of the American Civil War, but it was the war that catalyzed her most enduring work. Her collection « Is Polite Society Polite? and Other Essays » delves into her experiences and observations of the social etiquettes and the often paradoxical nature of societal norms. Howe »s literary style often reflected her reformist ideas, using her voice to critique and question the status quo of her era. Her essays are characterized by sharp wit and a clear call for social improvement, encapsulating her lifelong dedication to activism. Her significance in American literature and history is also marked by her co-founding of the American Woman Suffrage Association and her efforts in initiating the celebration of Mother »s Day. Howe »s legacy as a writer and reformer continues to be celebrated for its impact on the cultural and political landscapes of the United States.