Dr. Tara A. Bynum

Dr. Bynum is an Assistant Professor of English & African American Studies at the University of Iowa. In celebration of the 250th anniversary of Phillis Wheatley's published book of poetry, Dr. Bynum will explore the archival evidence of joy and friendship that flourished between Wheatley and Obour Tanner, her most frequent letter correspondent. Wheatley, an enslaved person, was the first person of color to publish written work and was one of the best-known poets in pre-19th century America.