In the fifty years since the 100th anniversary of his birth, Whittier's reputation has declined markedly, yet his contributions are far too significant to be forgotten. Joining the ranks of the abolitionists in 1833, Whittier played a decisive role in crystallizing wavering sentiments in the North and West against slavery. Through his poetry he aroused the moral indignation vital to the success of the cause, and through political maneuver he helped gain election of such antislavery leaders as Senator Charles Sumner. A second contribution made by Whittier was his evocative portrayal of the simple life of early rural New England, a significant component of the American experience. Finally, his poetry helped to preserve old tales and legends of the colonial period, adding to the richness of the American story.