Rufus Griscom

Rufus Wilmot Griswold (1815–1857) was an American editor, anthologist, and literary critic active in the mid‑19th century. He is best known for compiling influential collections such as *The Poets and Poetry of America* (1842) and for his often combative role in literary circles. Griswold edited several periodicals, including *Graham’s Magazine*, and contributed criticism and editorial work to newspapers and magazines in New York and Philadelphia. He was also appointed U.S. consul in Liverpool in 1852. Griswold’s reputation remains closely tied to his contentious relationship with Edgar Allan Poe and his posthumous portrayal of Poe.