Mark Twain, born Samuel Langhorne Clemens on November 30, 1835, in Florida, Missouri, stands as one of America’s most celebrated literary figures. His birth coincided with the appearance of Halley's Comet, which he famously predicted would also mark his death. Twain passed away on April 21, 1910, in Redding, Connecticut, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence literature to this day.

Twain's early life was marked by hardship and adventure. After his father died when he was just 11, he left school to work as a typesetter and later as a riverboat pilot on the Mississippi River. This experience would provide rich material for his future works. Twain's early exposure to the diverse cultures along the river informed his understanding of human nature and the complexities of American society.

His literary career took off in the mid-19th century, beginning with the publication of "The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County" in 1865. Twain's most notable works include "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" (1876) and its sequel, "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" (1884), both of which explore themes of race, identity, and moral growth in America. His writing style, characterized by humor, satire, and regional dialects, revolutionized American literature.

In his personal life, Twain experienced both triumph and tragedy. He married Olivia Langdon in 1870, and they had four children together, though only one survived to adulthood. Twain faced significant financial challenges, including a failed investment in a typesetting machine, and endured the heartache of losing several family members. Despite these hardships, Twain remained a prolific writer and a keen observer of society, making enduring contributions to literature and social commentary. His unique voice and incisive wit continue to resonate, securing his place as a cornerstone of American literary history.