James Weldon Johnson

James Weldon Johnson (June 17, 1871 – June 26, 1938) was an American author, politician, diplomat, critic, journalist, poet, anthologist, educator, lawyer, songwriter, and early civil rights activist. Johnson is remembered best for his leadership within the NAACP, as well as for his writing, which includes novels, poems, and collections of folklore. He was also one of the first African-American professors at New York University. Later in life he was a professor of creative literature and writing at Fisk University.

Read more about James Weldon Johnson:  Life, Education and Law, Diplomacy, Literature and Anthology, Poetry, Activism, Awards, Honors, and Legacy

Famous quotes containing the words weldon johnson, james, weldon and/or johnson:

    Young man—Young man—Your arm’s too short to box with God.
    —James Weldon Johnson (1871–1938)

    There is ... an organic affinity between joyousness and tenderness, and their companionship in the saintly life need in no way occasion surprise.
    —William James (1842–1910)

    Young man—Young man—Your arm’s too short to box with God.
    —James Weldon Johnson (1871–1938)

    Maybe it’s like Casey says. A fellow ain’t got a soul of his own. Just a little piece of a big soul. The one big soul that belongs to everybody.
    —Nunnally Johnson (1897–1977)