In series 12 of The Biographers, we're talking about one of the truest titans of American literature to ever put pen to paper: Mark Twain. Given the name Samuel Langhorne Clemens at birth in the pre-Civil War era of America, our next subject would grow up in a time of slavery, witness its abolition, and grow to become an outspoken opponent of racism. His childhood was often times idyllic, but was not without its moments of extreme trauma and tragedy. Thankfully, literacy was on the rise, and through the magic of books, young Sammy Clemens was able to find an escape from the drudgery and sadness of his youth, and forge some unforgettable friendships. His childhood would abruptly come to an end, however, and at just 12 years old he would enter the workforce. Tune in for part 1 of Mark Twain to learn more! (Ep. 061)