Margaret Kernochan Leech was born on July 7, 1893, in New York. She was the daughter of a wealthy family and grew up surrounded by books and culture. This early exposure to literature would shape her future career as a historian and author.
After graduating from Vassar College, Leech delved into the world of journalism. She worked as a reporter for several newspapers before becoming a freelance writer. It was during this time that she started to focus on historical writing, using her journalistic skills to research and write about significant events in American history.
During World War I, Leech worked for the American Committee for Devastated France, where she witnessed the aftermath of the war firsthand. This experience would influence her later works, giving her a unique perspective on the impact of historical events on individuals and society as a whole.
Leech married Ralph Pulitzer, the publisher of the New York World. Her father-in-law, Joseph Pulitzer, was the founder of the Pulitzer Prize, an award that Margaret would later win for her outstanding contributions to American literature and history.
One of Leech's most famous works is Reveille in Washington, 1860-1865, a groundbreaking historical account of Civil War-era Washington, D.C. This Pulitzer Prize-winning book brought Leech critical acclaim and established her as a leading historian of the Twentieth Century.
In addition to her historical works, Leech also wrote novels such as Tin Wedding and The Back of the Book. These novels showcased her ability to blend fact and fiction, creating compelling stories that resonated with readers both then and now.
Throughout her career, Leech was known for her meticulous research and attention to detail. She took great care to accurately portray historical events and figures, earning her a reputation as a respected and credible historian.
Margaret Leech's contributions to American literature and history are immeasurable. Her insightful writing and dedication to her craft have left a lasting impact on the literary world, inspiring future generations of historians and authors to explore the past with curiosity and passion.
Margaret Leech passed away on February 24, 1974, but her legacy lives on through her timeless works that continue to inform and inspire readers around the world.