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Mark Twain, born Samuel Langhorne Clemens on November 30, 1835, in Florida, Missouri, is one of the most celebrated authors in American literature. Known for his sharp wit, pithy social commentary, and exceptional storytelling, Twain's literary style has endured as a hallmark of 19th-century American literature. He began his career as a printer's apprentice, eventually becoming a riverboat pilot on the Mississippi River, where he adopted the pen name 'Mark Twain,' a term signifying safe water depth for navigation. Twain's experiences on the river deeply influenced his writing, most notably manifesting in 'Life on the Mississippi' and 'Adventures of Huckleberry Finn,' the latter often referred to as 'The Great American Novel.' His works have been praised for their realistic depiction of the American South, incisive satire, and use of vernacular speech. While 'The Outlaws of the Wild West: 150+ Westerns in One Edition' is a compendium often attributed to Twain, it is crucial to note that his individual contributions to the Western genre are not as specifically defined by a single publication. Twain's bibliography is extensive, with classics such as 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer,' 'A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court,' and 'Pudd'nhead Wilson,' securing his place as a giant in the literary canon. His storytelling genius, coupled with a keen sense for social critique, makes Mark Twain a central figure in American literature, one whose works continue to be revered and analyzed for their cultural and literary significance.
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