American poetry has been shaped and deeply influenced by the wealth of female voices that have contributed to its originality and vivacity through the years. From the colonial era's Phillis Wheatley to the new voices of the 21st century, this volume surveys the ongoing contributions and critical legacy of the United States' diverse women poets. This indispensible collection of critical essays highlights the prominent American women poets who have made an impact on the genre. American Women Poets includes an introduction from literary scholarly Harold Bloom, a chronology, a bibliography, and an index.