William Haines Lytle (November 2, 1826 – September 20, 1863) was an American poet, lawyer, and Confederate army colonel. Known as the "Poet of the Soldiers," he gained fame for his martial poetry, particularly the celebrated poem "Antony and Cleopatra." Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, Lytle studied at Transylvania University in Kentucky before pursuing a legal career. When the Civil War erupted, he joined the Confederate Army and served as colonel of the 10th Tennessee Infantry. He was killed in battle at Chickamauga in September 1863, at the age of 36. His poetry, characterized by patriotic fervor and classical references, continues to be remembered as significant works of Civil War-era American literature.
