James Russell Lowell; (February 22, 1819 – August 12, 1891) was an American Romantic poet, critic, editor, and diplomat. He is associated with the Fireside Poets, a group of New England writers who were among the first American poets who rivalled the popularity of British poets. These poets usually used conventional forms and meters in their poetry, making them suitable for families entertaining at their fireside. "The Biglow Papers" can be considered as satirical poetry in Yankee dialect. Lowell opposed the Mexican-American War, regarding it as an attempt to extend slavery. (Excerpt from Wikipedia)