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)
“Mr. James Joyce is a great man who is entirely without taste.”
—Rebecca West (1892–1983)
“Young man—Young man—Your arm’s too short to box with God.”
—James Weldon Johnson (1871–1938)
“Patriotism having become one of our topicks, Johnson suddenly uttered, in a strong determined tone, an apophthegm, at which many will start: “Patriotism is the last refuge of a scoundrel.” But let it be considered that he did not mean a real and generous love of our country, but that pretended patriotism which so many, in all ages and countries, have made a cloak of self-interest.”
—Samuel Johnson (1709–1784)