Carl Sandburg, born Carl August Sandburg on January 6, 1878, in Galesburg, Illinois, emerged as one of America’s most celebrated poets and writers. His literary contributions spanned poetry, biography, and children’s literature, and he is often remembered for his ability to capture the essence of American life in the early 20th century. Sandburg passed away on July 22, 1967, in Flat Rock, North Carolina, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire readers and writers alike.

Sandburg’s early life was marked by humble beginnings. The son of Swedish immigrants, he worked various jobs, including as a milkman and a freight handler, to support his family. This exposure to the working class and the struggles of ordinary people greatly influenced his writing. Sandburg attended Lombard College but left without graduating, opting instead to enlist in the Spanish-American War. His experiences during this time shaped his worldview and later informed his literary themes.

Sandburg’s literary career began in earnest when he published his first collection of poetry, "Chicago Poems," in 1916. This work, characterized by its free verse and vivid imagery, established him as a key figure in the modernist movement. His notable works include "Cornhuskers," "The People, Yes," and the Pulitzer Prize-winning biography "Lincoln: The Prairie Years." Through his poetry and prose, Sandburg celebrated the American spirit, often focusing on themes of labor, nature, and social justice.

In his personal life, Sandburg married Paula Sandburg in 1908, and together they had three daughters. His family life was deeply intertwined with his work, as he often drew inspiration from his surroundings and experiences. Sandburg’s ability to articulate the complexities of human emotion and the American experience has solidified his place in literary history, making him an enduring figure in American literature.