Mark Twain

Mark Twain's Speeches

This book ''Mark Twain's Speeches'' is a combined context of various speeches by Mark Twain. Mark Twain was one of the most well-known public speakers of his time and was frequently called to give speeches to mark key anniversaries, public holidays, school graduations, banquets for dignitaries, and occasions hosted by charities, reform movements, and the like. This extensive collection of lectures, which spans more than four decades and was published a few months after Mark Twain's passing, reflects the breadth of his interests. Here are speeches about copyright law expansion, cigars and pools, and women's rights. In addition to being funny in and of themselves, the occasional pieces, banquet toasts, and introductions in it offer many aspects. Some of Twain's most controversial and audacious speeches are also included, including "The Babies," which closes with a memorable image of the guest of honor: a young Ulysses S. Grant attempted to put his toe in his mouth, and the infamous "Whittier Birthday" Speech, in which he made fun of three literary giants of New England to the horror of his audience.