American History Tellers Great American Authors | Mark Twain: Voice of a Nation | 3
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Dec 6, 2023 Mark Twain, famous author, discusses his early life on the Mississippi River and rise as a renowned writer. Topics include his social issue exposés, financial struggles, and contradictory views on wealth. Also mentioned are his contrarian stance on imperialism and U.S. interventions abroad, as well as his impact on American literature.
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Clemens' Apprenticeship
- Samuel Clemens, a young man with red hair, approached a steamboat pilot in New Orleans.
- He persistently requested an apprenticeship despite the pilot's initial reluctance, showcasing his ambition.
Steamboat Career and Tragedy
- Clemens's steamboat piloting career ended with the Civil War.
- His brother Henry died in a steamboat explosion, deeply affecting Clemens.
Hoax Article Controversy
- Twain's hoax article about a water company fraud caused controversy and cancellations.
- His editor, however, recognized his talent and refused his resignation.