James Weldon Johnson

1871–1938 (age 67)

Writer/Composer/Activist

Biography

James Weldon Johnson was a transformative writer, composer, and activist whose life enriched American culture and the struggle for civil rights. His work spanned poetry, music, and leadership within the NAACP, making him a central figure in the fight for equality during the early twentieth century.

Interred at Green-Wood Cemetery, Johnson’s achievements continue to inspire artists, activists, and scholars who draw upon his legacy of creativity and advocacy.

Did you know James Weldon Johnson?

Help us tell their story. Share a memory, upload a gravestone photo, or correct any details.