Today marks the 190th birthday of Mark Twain, recognized as a foundational figure in American literature. In a statement released to commemorate the occasion, the president reflected on Twain's enduring influence on American culture and values.
Twain, born Samuel Clemens in Hannibal, Missouri, drew inspiration for his writing from his early life experiences along the Mississippi River. Before adopting his pen name, he worked in various professions including as a printer’s apprentice, riverboat pilot, and silver miner. These formative years contributed to what became his signature style—marked by humor and directness—and led to characters that remain central to American storytelling.
The presidential message highlighted Twain's role in documenting key moments in U.S. history such as the Civil War, Reconstruction era, and Industrial Age. The statement said Twain “chronicled a country finding its identity and gave voice to the forgotten Americans who make it so unique.” His travels around the world also shaped his perspective on American society.
Referencing well-known works like "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" and "The Innocents Abroad," the message emphasized how Twain captured both “the humor, hardship, and hope of an era.” According to the statement: “His humor was honest, his honesty was humorous, and both were unapologetic, bold, and distinctly American.”
The president also cited one of Twain’s famous observations: “The secret of getting ahead is getting started.” He connected this sentiment with current administration efforts: “From the very first day of my Administration, we got to work fulfilling the promises we made to the American people, and we are delivering historic results. We are revitalizing our economy, lowering prices and costs of living for everyday Americans, securing the safest border in history, and brokering unprecedented peace deals around the globe. We are restoring law and order, rebuilding American strength, and renewing pride in the values that make our country great. In so doing, we are fulfilling Mark Twain’s hope for an America that measures greatness not in the illusion he once called the ‘Gilded Age’ but in the Golden Age of prosperity for all Americans.”
The statement concluded with birthday wishes for Mark Twain.
