W. Allison Sweeney facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William Allison Sweeney
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| Born | July 27, 1851 |
| Died | 1921 (aged 69–70) |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Newspaper editor |
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William Allison Sweeney (born July 27, 1851 – died 1921) was an important American writer. He was a newspaper editor and owner. He was also a poet and wrote a book about African American soldiers. This book covered their brave actions in World War I.
Contents
A Life in Newspapers
William Allison Sweeney was born in Superior Township, Washtenah County, Michigan. This was on July 27, 1851. He grew up to become a well-known newspaper man. His career started in 1879.
Sweeney wrote for many newspapers. He worked for both Black and white newspapers. For example, he wrote for The Herald in Indianapolis. He also edited and published his own newspapers. These included The People in West Virginia and The National People in Detroit.
Editor of The Freeman and Chicago Conservator
From 1890 to 1898, Sweeney was the editor and manager of The Freeman. This was an important newspaper in Indianapolis. Later, he became an editor and part-owner of the Chicago Leader.
One of his most famous roles was as editor of The Chicago Conservator. He started working there in 1904. This newspaper was very important in the African American community. Sweeney helped share important news and ideas through his work there.
A Poet and Pioneer
Besides his newspaper work, Sweeney was also a talented poet. He was known as one of the "Chicago poets." People believe he wrote the first poem by a Black man that used "free verse." Free verse is a style of poetry that does not use regular rhymes or rhythms.
Sweeney also made history in another way. In 1885, he was the first Black person to serve on a jury in West Virginia. This was a big step forward for equality.
Sweeney's Writing Style
William Allison Sweeney was a respected journalist. Many younger writers looked up to him. His articles often had strong messages. He used beautiful and passionate language. This style was common in Black journalism at the time. It helped to share important news and opinions.
His Published Works
Sweeney wrote a major book and several poems.
Books
- History of the American Negro in the Great World War (1919): This book tells the story of African American soldiers. It covers their bravery in World War I. It also looks back at their service in earlier wars. These included the American Revolution and the Civil War.
Poems
- "The Other Fellow's Burden"
- "A Certain American Beauty at the President's Levee"
- "A Name among the Princely Few"
- "Baby"
- "Lincoln"
- "No Chance for the Negro?"
