Question

Who was the first black person to publish a novel in the United States?

1) Harriet Beecher Stowe
2) Frederick Douglass
3) Phillis Wheatley
4) Langston Hughes

Answer 1

Phillis Wheatley was the first black person to publish a novel in the United States with her 1773 poetry book 'Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral'.

Step-by-step explanation:

The first black person to publish a novel in the United States was Phillis Wheatley. Wheatley, who was enslaved, displayed remarkable literary talents, achieving full literacy despite the severe restrictions on the education of enslaved individuals. In 1773, she published her book of poetry, Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral, thus becoming the first African American and first enslaved person in the United States to publish a book. Wheatley's book was groundbreaking, attesting to her intellect and artistic ability in a society that doubted the capabilities of black individuals.