William Henry Burr

Born in New York on April 15, 1819, he lived a long life that stretched into the early 20th century, dying in Washington, D.C., on February 28, 1908. Records connected with his burial and memorial also describe him as a graduate of Union College.

He is best remembered for argumentative, idea-driven books rather than fiction. Works associated with him include Self-contradictions of the Bible, The Declaration of Independence, a Masterpiece—But How It Got Mutilated!, and several books defending Thomas Paine or exploring the long-running Junius authorship debate.

His writing has the feel of a public controversy carried onto the page: direct, combative, and deeply interested in religion, liberty, and historical authorship. For listeners who enjoy neglected voices from American print culture, he offers a lively glimpse into the era's debates.