* Pre-Colonial Writing: Native American cultures had rich oral traditions and some forms of writing (like the Cherokee syllabary) before European colonization. It's difficult to pinpoint the earliest writer in such a context.
* Early Colonial Writings: The earliest written works by Americans in the colonial period were often practical in nature, like journals, letters, and official documents. While these writers are important, they might not be considered "literary" writers in the modern sense.
* Defining "American" and "Writer": The very definition of "American" and "writer" is complex and can vary depending on the time period and cultural context.
Some early figures often cited as important American writers include:
* Captain John Smith: Known for his journal entries and the book "The Generall Historie of Virginia, New-England, and the Summer Isles."
* Anne Bradstreet: One of the first poets in America, known for her religious and personal works.
* William Bradford: Author of "Of Plimoth Plantation," a historical account of the Plymouth Colony.
Ultimately, determining the "first" American writer is a matter of perspective and definition. While it's impossible to name a definitive first, these early figures played crucial roles in shaping American literature and its history.