The Wit and Humor of America, Volume I. (of X.)

Gathered from the turn of the 20th century, this anthology presents a lively cross‑section of the American funny bone. The editor opens with a warm meditation on why laughter matters, linking happiness to a shared, contagious spirit. Readers will encounter early masters such as Mark Twain, Artemus Ward, and Robert J. Burdette, whose anecdotes and one‑liners helped shape a uniquely American brand of humor.

The selections range from Twain’s self‑deprecating schoolyard tale to Ward’s dead‑pan absurdities and Burdette’s club‑room roars, each illustrating the blend of wit, satire, and gentle raillery that defined the era. With concise stories and punchy conclusions, the volume captures the spontaneity and good‑natured mischief that made these storytellers beloved nationwide. Listeners will feel the echo of a time when a well‑timed joke could brighten a lecture hall or a bustling tavern alike.