Mark Twain, age 31

1867

Mark Twain, born Samuel Langhorne Clemens on November 30, 1835, in Florida, Missouri, was an American writer, humorist, and essayist. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest American writers of all time. Twain's most famous works include "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" (1876) and its sequel, "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" (1884), the latter often being called the "Great American Novel"2.

Twain's early life was marked by various jobs, including working as a printer's apprentice and a riverboat pilot on the Mississippi River. These experiences provided material for his later works, such as "Life on the Mississippi" (1883). Twain first gained national attention with his humorous short story "The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County" in 1865.

Throughout his career, Twain wrote more than 20 novels, numerous short stories, essays, and travelogues. His wit and satire earned him praise from critics and peers alike. Twain was also known for his outspoken views on social issues, including anti-imperialism and civil rights.

Twain passed away on April 21, 1910, in Redding, Connecticut, but his legacy continues to influence American literature and culture.