Walt Whitman
31 May 1819 - 26 March 1892
Walt Whitman (1819–1892) was an influential American poet, essayist, and journalist. Often hailed as the "father of free verse," he challenged traditional poetic forms and celebrated the individual spirit. His groundbreaking work "Leaves of Grass" explored themes of identity, nature, and the human experience. Whitman's unfiltered language and embrace of diversity earned him both praise and controversy. His legacy as a poetic pioneer continues to shape modern literature and inspire generations of writers.