Mark Twain

Mark Twain

Mark Twain
1835 -1910

Mark Twain Biography

Samuel Langhorne Clemens (November 30, 1835 – April 21, 1910), known by his pen name Mark Twain, was an American writer, humorist, and lecturer. Born in Florida, Missouri, and raised in Hannibal, he drew inspiration from his surroundings for his classic novels The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.

Twain began his career as a printer's apprentice and later became a licensed river pilot on the Mississippi River. His experiences on the river influenced his writing, providing rich material for his stories. During the Civil War, he briefly joined a Confederate militia but soon left for Nevada and California, where he worked as a miner and journalist.

His humorous short story, The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County, published in 1865, brought him national attention. Twain's wit and satire earned him acclaim, and he became a popular public speaker. Throughout his life, he traveled extensively, delivering lectures and gathering material for his writings.

Despite financial setbacks from failed investments, Twain's literary legacy endured. He passed away on April 21, 1910, coinciding with the appearance of Halley's Comet, as he had predicted. Today, he is celebrated as one of America's greatest literary figures.

Trivia About Mark Twain

  • Mark Twain was born shortly after Halley's Comet passed by Earth and died the day after it returned.
  • He held a patent for a self-pasting scrapbook, which became a bestseller in the 19th century.
  • Twain was friends with Nikola Tesla and spent time in Tesla's laboratory.
  • He was a strong supporter of women's rights and an advocate for women's suffrage.

Famous Quotes by Mark Twain

  • "The reports of my death are greatly exaggerated."
  • "It is better to keep your mouth closed and let people think you are a fool than to open it and remove all doubt."
  • "The secret of getting ahead is getting started."

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Mark Twain?

Mark Twain was the pen name of Samuel Langhorne Clemens, an American author and humorist known for his novels and satirical writings.

What are some of his most famous works?

His most famous works include The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.

Why did Samuel Clemens choose the pen name Mark Twain?

"Mark Twain" is a riverboat term meaning two fathoms deep, indicating safe water for navigation. Clemens adopted it during his time as a river pilot.

Related Literary Movements

Mark Twain is associated with American Realism, a literary movement that aimed to depict everyday life and society accurately.

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