John Greenleaf Whittier was an American poet and abolitionist born on December 17, 1807, in Haverhill, Massachusetts. He is best known for his passionate poetry that advocated for the end of slavery and social justice. Whittier was a prominent figure in the New England literary scene and was associated with the Fireside Poets, a group of popular 19th-century American poets. Throughout his life, Whittier wrote numerous poems, essays, and articles that reflected his deep commitment to humanitarian causes. His most famous works include "Snow-Bound" and "The Barefoot Boy." Whittier's literary contributions helped shape public opinion on important social issues of his time, and he remained active in the abolitionist movement until his death on September 7, 1892.