Edna Dean Proctor (September 18, 1829 – December 18, 1923) was an American writer and poet. Although she occasionally wrote short sketches and stories, poetry was her field. Proctor was characterized as a master of pathos. Early in life, Proctor was a writer of poetry, but not until the Civil War —which aroused the patriotic element within her— were her verses known around the country when her national poems became dear to soldiers. "The Stripes and Stars," written in April, 1861; "Compromise," inscribed to Congress, July 4, 1861; "Who's Ready?" written in July, 1862, were characterized as national anthems. Her battle songs were later published in a volume of collected poems by Hurd & Houghton in 1867. A later collection was also published. Being financially well-off, she wrote only when inspired to do so.