Washington Irving, colorized illustration from original black and white

Washington Irving

(1783-1859)

WHO HE WAS:

Washington Irving was an American short story writer, essayist, biographer, historian, and diplomat of the early 19th century. He is known as the first American man of letters, and he is credited with introducing the short story as a new genre in American literature. Irving is best remembered for his stories "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" and "Rip Van Winkle."

WHAT HE SAID:

"A tart temper never mellows with age, and a sharp tongue is the only edged tool that grows keener with constant use."

WHY HE MATTERED:

Irving crafted a uniquely American narrative voice and is often called the father of American literature. He was instrumental in shaping the identity of American culture through his prolific storytelling, which combined elements of myth, legend, and history.