The Fireside Poets

The Fireside Poets were a group of American writers in the 19th century, known for their accessible and family-friendly poetry. Key figures included Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, James Russell Lowell, William Cullen Bryant, and Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. Their work often celebrated nature, American themes, and moral values, making poetry popular among middle-class families. They earned the nickname "Fireside Poets" as their verses were frequently read aloud by families around the fireplace. Their influence helped shape American literature and culture, promoting a sense of national identity during a time of change.