African American literature, according to Encyclopedia Brittannica, is a body of literature written by Americans of African descent. Writings began as early as the 18th century with poet, Phillis Wheatley (1753-1784) who was the first African American author of a book of poetry.
Some of the characteristics one will find in African American literature are:
https://hindscc.instructure.com/courses/214021/pages/characteristics-of-african-american-literature
1746 - Lucy Terry
Author of a ballad called "Bars Fight."
1761 - Jupiter Hammon
Considered the first African American writer in America.
"An Evening Thought: Salvation by Christ with Penitential Cries"
1773 - Phillis Wheatley
First published book of poetry.
Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral.
1845 - Frederick Douglass
American social reformer, abolitionist, oral, writer, and statesman.
Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave
1847 - William Wells Brown
Prominent African-American abolitionist lecturer, novelist, playwright, and historian.
Narrative of William W. Brown, a Fugitive Slave, Written by Himself.
