Life on the Mississippi

Use these questions or activities to help gauge students’ familiarity with and spark their interest in the context of the work, giving them an entry point into the text itself.

Short Answer

1. What was the possible impact of steamboat technology on the landscape of the United States of America? What factors might have contributed to the decline of steamboats on the Mississippi River?

Teaching Suggestion: Mark Twain began his adult life working as a steamboat pilot along the Mississippi River. Twain explores the importance of steamboats, the dangers of operating them, and the eventual decline of the steamboat industry following the Civil War. Consider discussing the questions before exploring the impact of steamboats on the American landscape.  

• This 3-minute video dramatizes how steamboats revolutionized travel on the Mississippi River.
• This article from National Geographic explains the various purposes of steamboats in America and explores some of their pitfalls.

2. Why is Mark Twain referred to as the Father of American Literature? What elements of Twain’s early life inspired some of his works?

Teaching Suggestion: When Mark Twain returns to the Mississippi River, he has become famous for his literary works. Consider discussing the impact of Mark Twain’s literary success and exploring the places that serve as inspiration for Twain’s writing.