Mark Twain

Mark Twain is one of the most celebrated authors in American literature, known for his novels, short stories, and essays that display his keen wit, observational humor and social criticism. Born Samuel Langhorne Clemens in 1835, Twain began his career as a riverboat pilot in the late 1850s, and drew from those years of experience when he wrote some of his most beloved books. He is most well-known for his adventures novels, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.

Twain’s parents were born in Florida, Missouri, but separated when Mark was four. He was raised by his mother, a school teacher, and supported himself through selling firewood, teaching, and finally became a riverboat pilot in 1859. Like many in the South, Twain had enslaved people; something he wrote about in his autobiography.

In the early 1860s, Twain began writing humorous letters and short stories, publishing them in the local newspapers. His first notable success was an article called Letter from Carson City, which was published in the Virginia City Enterprise in 1863. His first book, The Innocents Abroad, was published in 1869 and was based on his 1867 travels.

In 1872, Twain published his most revered works, the two novel series Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, which were inspired by his childhood in Missouri. These books have become classics of American literature and have been hailed for their insight into the lives of children. Twain was also known for his razor-sharp wit and humor and a number of his books contained sketches and stories with a satirical element, including A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court and The Prince and the Pauper.

Twain traveled a great deal and wrote about his numerous experiences in essays, travelogues and articles. He also wrote many autobiographical works, such as My Autobiography, which he began to write in his late 70s but which was never finished at the time of his death in 1910.

Throughout his life, Twain wrote and spoke on social issues including race, religion, and financial inequality. He was opposed to imperialistic expansion, particularly in the Philippines, and was a champion of civil rights. While his views were not always popular with readers, he was never afraid of speaking his mind.

Amid his novels, stories, and essays, Twain wrote a number of occasional pieces, including a few works of fiction, such as Pudd’nhead Wilson. He also had a great interest in science, particularly geology, hydrology, and astronomy, and wrote several works of science fiction.

It is Twain’s unique ability to combine sharp wit and humor with insight and social critique that makes him one of the most celebrated authors of all time. His brilliant works have not only influenced writers for years, but have become beloved classics of American literature.