About
An influential cultural historian and critic, he is especially known for his work on Latin American and Spanish literature and culture. His published works include The Rediscovery of America (1929), South of Us (1931), and Virgin Spain (1926).
Before Fame
He was thrown out of high school for challenging a teacher's knowledge and authority. He later received undergraduate and graduate degrees from Yale University.
Trivia
His 1971 novel, The Unwelcome Man, was influenced by transcendentalist ideas.
Family Life
He was born into an affluent Jewish family in Long Branch, New Jersey.
Associated With
He and Langston Hughes both belonged to a left-wing group called the League of American Writers.
