Samuel Langhorne Clemens, known by his pen name Mark Twain, was born on November 30, 1835, in Florida, Missouri. He spent his formative years in Hannibal, Missouri, a port town on the Mississippi River that would later inspire the fictional town of St. Petersburg in his renowned novels. Twain's early experiences in this vibrant river town deeply influenced his literary works, providing rich material for his vivid storytelling. In his early career, Twain worked as a printer's apprentice and later as a typesetter, contributing articles and humorous sketches to his brother Orion's newspaper. He then trained as a riverboat pilot on the Mississippi River, a profession he practiced until the outbreak of the Civil War halted river traffic. These diverse experiences enriched his understanding of American life and culture, which he masterfully depicted in his writings. Twain achieved literary acclaim with works such as The Adventures of Tom Sawyer (1876) and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn (1884), the latter often hailed as the "Great American Novel." His sharp wit and keen observations made him a beloved humorist and social critic, engaging audiences through both his writings and lectures. Twain's legacy endures as a cornerstone of American literature, reflecting the complexities and spirit of the nation during his lifetime.
