Thomas Dunn English

Thomas Dunn English (1819–1902) was an American physician, poet, and Democratic politician. Born in Philadelphia, he trained in medicine and also pursued writing, contributing poems, songs, and prose to periodicals. He is best remembered for the popular song/poem “Ben Bolt,” widely reprinted and set to music in the nineteenth century. English also became a notable figure in American literary history through his public feud with Edgar Allan Poe, which led to sharp exchanges in print and a lawsuit. In public life he served as a Democratic officeholder and later represented New Jersey in the U.S. House of Representatives. He died in Newark, New Jersey.