African Americans Pioneers Artists Business Characters Cultural Figures Inventors Politicians Scientists Sports Women Writers

Sarah Josepha Hale (1788)close

Sarah Josepha Hale, born in Newport, New Hampshire, was an author and journalist who wrote the nursery rhyme "Mary Had a Little Lamb." She also edited Godey's Ladies Book the first periodical for American women, and was a leader in suggesting that there be a national Thanksgiving day. President Lincoln adopted her suggestion in 1863.

Click on any of the names below to find out more...

Looking for a famous American?

This page presents short biographies of more than 200 famous Americans drawn from our unit, "The 50 States." These personalities are arranged by theme.

Just click a theme at the top of the page to view a selection list for that theme.