Frank H. Severance was an American author, historian, and bibliographer, best known for his contributions to the literature of the New York State and the history of the American West. Born in 1856, Severance spent much of his life in Buffalo, New York, where he became a prominent figure in the local literary community. His most notable work, "A History of the State of New York," provided a comprehensive overview of the state's development, while his bibliographical efforts helped to preserve and catalog important literary works from the region. Severance's meticulous research and dedication to historical accuracy made him a respected authority in his field. In addition to his historical writings, Severance was an advocate for the preservation of local history and culture, contributing significantly to the Buffalo Historical Society and other organizations. His passion for literature and history was evident in his numerous essays and articles, which often highlighted the importance of understanding the past to inform the present. Severance's legacy endures through his extensive publications and the impact he had on the study of regional history, making him a key figure in American literary and historical scholarship.
“Another teacher introduced me to the H.L. Mencken quote that “for every complex problem there is an answer that is clear, simple, and wrong.””
“And so, it seems to me, it is with our prisons. They are filled with criminals which our virtuous State has made what they are by its iniquitous laws, its grinding monopolies, and the horrible social conditions that result from them. We enact many laws that manufacture criminals, and then a few that punish them. Is it too much to expect that the new social conditions which must follow the abolition of all interference with the production and distribution of wealth will in the end so change the habits and propensities of men that our jails and prisons, our policemen and our soldiers,”
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