Portrait of John Greenleaf Whitter c. 19th century

William B. Closson created this engraving of John Greenleaf Whittier, the Quaker poet and abolitionist, on an unidentified date. Whittier’s commitment to social justice was deeply rooted in his Quaker faith, a faith that influenced his activism and poetry. Consider the cultural context of Whittier's time. As a prominent voice in the abolitionist movement, Whittier fearlessly used his poetry to condemn slavery and advocate for the emancipation of enslaved people. His writing contributed to the growing moral outrage that ultimately led to the Civil War. Whittier once said, "The heart of the conflict is the heart of the matter." His work not only reflected the political and ethical battles of his time but also stirred the emotions of a nation grappling with profound moral questions. Closson’s engraving captures more than just Whittier’s likeness; it invites us to reflect on the power of art and activism to shape social change.