Henry Louis Mencken

H. L. Mencken (Henry Louis Mencken, 1880–1956) was an American journalist, essayist, cultural critic, and editor based in Baltimore. He became one of the most influential commentators of the early 20th century, known for sharp satire, skepticism toward conventional pieties, and vigorous prose. Mencken wrote extensively for newspapers and magazines and gained a wide readership through essays on politics, religion, language, and American culture. He also helped shape literary debate as editor of *The American Mercury*, a magazine he co-founded in 1924. His work remains noted for its wit, iconoclasm, and enduring impact on American journalism.