Introduction
Mark Twain is one of the most celebrated American writers of all time. His works, such as The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, are considered classics of American literature. However, not many people know that Mark Twain was not his real name. In fact, his birth name was Samuel Langhorne Clemens. In this article, we will explore the life of Mark Twain, or Samuel Langhorne Clemens, and how he became one of the most iconic writers in American history.
Early Life
Samuel Langhorne Clemens was born on November 30, 1835, in Florida, Missouri. He was the sixth of seven children born to John Marshall Clemens and Jane Lampton Clemens. When he was four years old, his family moved to Hannibal, Missouri, a town that would later serve as the inspiration for many of his works.
Early Career
After finishing his education, Clemens worked as a printer's apprentice and later as a riverboat pilot on the Mississippi River. It was during this time that he began to write, using the pen name "Mark Twain" for the first time in 1863. The name "Mark Twain" is a riverboat term that means "two fathoms deep" or "safe depth for navigation."
Success as a Writer
Mark Twain's first major success as a writer came in 1865 with the publication of The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County. This was followed by other successful works such as The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, which are now considered classics of American literature. Twain's writing was known for its humor, satire, and social commentary, and he became one of the most popular writers of his time.
Later Life
In his later years, Twain became involved in various business ventures, including investing in a typesetting machine and a publishing company. However, both ventures failed, and he was left in financial ruin. He spent the last years of his life traveling and giving lectures to pay off his debts. Twain died on April 21, 1910, in Redding, Connecticut, at the age of 74.
Legacy
Mark Twain's legacy as a writer and cultural icon continues to this day. His works have been translated into numerous languages and adapted for film, television, and stage. He is remembered as a champion of individual freedom and a fierce critic of social injustice. His birthplace in Florida, Missouri, is now a state historic site, and his home in Hartford, Connecticut, is a museum dedicated to his life and work.
Conclusion
Mark Twain, or Samuel Langhorne Clemens, was a writer whose works have become an integral part of American literature. He was known for his humor, satire, and social commentary, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of writers and readers. Although he struggled with financial difficulties in his later years, his contributions to American culture and literature will never be forgotten.