William Sydney Porter

1862 - 1910

Born in Greensboro, North Carolina

Dropped out of school by age of 15

Became an apprentice to a pharmacist

Moved to Texas

Married Athol Estes Roach

Worked as a bank tellerAccused of embezzlementFled to Honduras

His wife became seriously ill and he returned to Texas

Was found guilty of embezzlement

Served time in a prison in Columbus, OH

Moved to New York in 1902Died of cirrhosis of the liver

(alcoholism) in 1910Wrote over 300 short stories

Characters and stories reflect his experiences and the colorful people he met from various places

Is known for his use of irony and surprise twists