Today in History: H.L. Mencken

H.L. Mencken, Critic
Today in History–September 12–the Library of Congress features writer H.L. Mencken, born on this day in 1880. Mencken was best known for his biting social commentary; scholarly understanding of American usage of the English language; and support of emerging writers, including Theodore DreiserSinclair LewisSherwood Anderson, and James Joyce. Learn more by visiting the Today in History section, then click the links below to access more primary sources related to this witty wordsmith.

H.L. Mencken portrait

H.L. Mencken interview (transcript)

H.L. Mencken historical newspaper coverage

The Artist: A Drama Without Words (1920)

The American Language by H.L. Mencken (1921)

In Defense of Women by H.L. Mencken (1922)