Everything Else MAKES NO SENSE!

1607-1775
Colonial Period:

Works were written primarily for mass-appeal, focusing on more commonly known subjects such as history and theology. The literary scene became more diverse when African-American writers were accepted into the mix. (Benjamin Franklin)

1765-1790
Revolutionary Age
New social and political thought was introduced during this era. Ideas were only just beginning to solidify and propositions were being bandied around in the written word. I am familiar with all of these writers (Thomas Jefferson, James Madison) and some of their works, excluding the poets.

1775-1865
Early National Period
An American style of literary expression began to solidify as genres were established. Uniquely American works were created during this shift away from British . The stories of slaves were written by freed and escaped slaves. (Edgar Allan Poe, Frederick Douglas)