Julia Ward Howe (May 27, 1819 – October 17, 1910) was a prominent American abolitionist, social activist, and poet most famous as the author of "The Battle Hymn of the Republic."

Born Julia Ward in New York City, she was the fourth of seven children born to Samuel Ward (May 1, 1786 – November 27, 1839) and Julia Rush Cutler. Among her siblings was Samuel Cutler Ward. Her father was a well-to-do banker. Her mother died when she was five. When she was young she learned many languages: Italian, French, German, and Greek.

Her paternal grandparents were Lieutenant Colonel Samuel Ward (November 17, 1756 – August 16, 1832) of the Continental Army and Phoebe Greene (died October 11, 1828). Her maternal grandparents were Benjamin Clarke and Sarah Mitchell Cutler.