Walt Whitman's writings were deeply shaped by the Civil War and the cultural landscape of 19th-century America. His experiences as a volunteer nurse during the war profoundly influenced his perspective on life, death, and humanity, which became central to his poetry. Works like "Leaves of Grass" reflect democratic ideals and the pursuit of individuality. Whitman embraced the changing social panorama, addressing subjects such as gender, sexuality, and spirituality, pushing against the constraints of traditional poetry. The cultural revolutions of his time informed his vision, making him a significant voice of American literature.