James Weldon Johnson

James Weldon Johnson Biography

James Weldon Johnson (June 17, 1871 – June 26, 1938) was a multifaceted American figure: author, educator, lawyer, diplomat, and civil rights activist. Born in Jacksonville, Florida, he was raised in a culturally rich environment that emphasized education and the arts. His mother, Helen Louise Dillet, was the first female African-American teacher in Florida, and his father, James Johnson, was a headwaiter and musician.

Johnson graduated from Atlanta University in 1894 and later pursued graduate studies at Columbia University. He became the first African American admitted to the Florida Bar, practicing law while serving as principal of Stanton School in Jacksonville. In 1900, he wrote the lyrics for "Lift Every Voice and Sing," set to music by his brother, J. Rosamond Johnson; this song became known as the Black National Anthem.

Relocating to New York City, Johnson and his brother composed over 200 songs for Broadway. Appointed by President Theodore Roosevelt, he served as U.S. consul in Venezuela and Nicaragua from 1906 to 1913. Upon returning, he became a prominent figure in the Harlem Renaissance, publishing works like The Autobiography of an Ex-Colored Man (1912) and editing The Book of American Negro Poetry (1922).

In 1917, Johnson joined the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), becoming its first African American executive secretary in 1920. He led campaigns against lynching and advocated for civil rights legislation. After resigning in 1931, he taught creative writing and literature at Fisk University until his death in 1938.

Trivia About James Weldon Johnson

• Johnson was the first African American professor at New York University.
• He changed his middle name from "William" to "Weldon" in 1913.
• Johnson and his brother's song "Lift Every Voice and Sing" was originally written for a celebration of Abraham Lincoln's birthday.
• He was a key figure in the Harlem Renaissance, promoting African American arts and culture.

Famous Quotes by James Weldon Johnson

• "Lift every voice and sing, till earth and heaven ring."
• "Young man, young man, your arm's too short to box with God."
• "The battle was lost or won in the secret places of the will before it was ever fought."

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was James Weldon Johnson?

James Weldon Johnson was an American author, educator, lawyer, diplomat, and civil rights activist, known for his leadership in the NAACP and contributions to the Harlem Renaissance.

What is "Lift Every Voice and Sing"?

"Lift Every Voice and Sing" is a song with lyrics by Johnson and music by his brother, often referred to as the Black National Anthem.

What are some of Johnson's notable works?

His notable works include The Autobiography of an Ex-Colored Man and The Book of American Negro Poetry.

Related Literary Movements

Johnson was a prominent figure in the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural movement celebrating African American arts and literature in the 1920s.

Explore more about James Weldon Johnson on eBookTakeAway