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Walt Whitman

@waltwhitman
10 Events1819 – 189273 Years

Explore the life and works of Walt Whitman through a detailed timeline, highlighting key events and milestones. Discover his literary journey!

Born:May 31, 1819
Known as:Poet, Essayist, Journalist
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26maart
1892
26 maart 1892

Death of Walt Whitman

Walt Whitman died on March 26, 1892, in Camden, New Jersey, at the age of 72. His death marked the end of an era for American poetry, but his influence continued to grow posthumously. Whitman's work has inspired countless poets and remains a vital part of American literary heritage.

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01januari
1882
01 januari 1882

Publication of Complete Works

In 1882, a Boston publisher released a complete edition of 'Leaves of Grass', which brought Whitman significant financial success and renewed public attention. This edition included new poems and revisions, reflecting Whitman's evolving thoughts and experiences over the years.

23januari
1873
23 januari 1873

Whitman's Stroke and Move to Camden

In January 1873, Whitman suffered a paralytic stroke that left him partially disabled. Following the stroke, he moved to Camden, New Jersey, to live with his brother George. This period marked a decline in his health, but he continued to write and revise his poetry.

01januari
1865
01 januari 1865

Whitman's Government Employment

In 1865, Whitman secured a position as a clerk in the Department of the Interior. However, he was dismissed later that year due to the controversial nature of his poetry. Despite this setback, Whitman continued to work in various government roles, which provided him with financial stability.

01december
1862
01 december 1862

Whitman in Washington, D.C.

In December 1862, Whitman moved to Washington, D.C., to care for his brother who was wounded in the Civil War. He stayed in the city for several years, working as a government clerk and volunteering in hospitals. This experience deeply influenced his poetry, particularly his themes of suffering and compassion.

04juli
1855
04 juli 1855

Publication of Leaves of Grass

On July 4, 1855, Walt Whitman self-published the first edition of 'Leaves of Grass'. This groundbreaking collection of poetry celebrated the human spirit and the American experience. The book was initially met with mixed reviews, but it eventually became a cornerstone of American literature.

01januari
1841
01 januari 1841

Whitman's Journalism Career

In 1841, Whitman moved to New York City and began working as a journalist. He wrote for several newspapers, including the Brooklyn Eagle, where he served as editor. His journalism career provided him with a platform to express his views on politics, society, and culture.

01januari
1836
01 januari 1836

Whitman Becomes a Teacher

At the age of 17, Walt Whitman began his career as a teacher in Long Island. He taught in various schools over the next few years, gaining experience and insight into the American education system. This period also allowed him to develop his ideas about democracy and individuality.

01januari
1830
01 januari 1830

Whitman's Early Education

Walt Whitman attended school in Brooklyn until the age of eleven. His formal education ended early due to his family's financial difficulties. Despite this, Whitman was a voracious reader and self-educated himself by reading classic literature, which shaped his literary style and future works.

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31mei
1819
31 mei 1819

Birth of Walt Whitman

Walt Whitman was born on May 31, 1819, in West Hills, Long Island, New York. He was the second of nine children in a family of modest means. His early life in this rural area would later influence his poetry, as he often drew upon his experiences and surroundings in his work.

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Frequently asked questions about Walt Whitman

Discover commonly asked questions regarding Walt Whitman. If there are any questions we may have overlooked, please let us know.

What is the significance of 'Leaves of Grass'?

What are some key themes in Whitman's poetry?

Who was Walt Whitman?

What is Walt Whitman's legacy?