Braithwaite, William Stanley, 1878-1962
Biography
William Stanley Braithwaite was born in Boston on December 6, 1878. By the age of 13, William Stanley Braithwaite quit school and began taking work as an errand boy in order to help support the family. After three years of this work, he found similar work in a publishing house where his passion for books and writing began. Braithwaite eventually became a writer himself, and was published in newspapers and other periodicals, as well as self-publishing his first book in 1904, titled "Lyrics of Life" and Love. His second book, "House of Falling Leaves," was published in 1908. Braithwaite’s poetry was recognized in literary circles for much of his life. More importantly, however, was his work in compiling anthologies of work published in periodicals. These yearly anthologies helped to launch the careers of many American poets. In 1918, Braithwaite received the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) Spingarn Medal for outstanding achievement by an African American. He also received honorary degrees from Atlanta University and Talledega College in Alabama. Between the years of 1935 and 1945, Braithwaite taught creative literature at Atlanta University. He died on June 8, 1962.
Found in 1 Collection or Record:
William Stanley Braithwaite writings and correspondence
William Stanley Braithwaite (1878-1962), poet. The collection contains drafts of epigrams on American authors as well as correspondence with Gustav Davidson and Harold Rugg. Drafts and fair copies of 17 poems are also included.