Gilbert Keith Chesterton, (29 May 1874 – 14 June 1936) was a poet, novelist, playwright, literary commentator, editor, biographer, journalist, orator and theologian. He was often dubbed as the "prince of paradox" for his light whimsical style that often addressed serious issues such as politics and religion. The latter was as a member and defender of the Christian faith and the former was shaped by a distrust of concentrated wealth and power.

In her heyday, renowned essayist Agnes Repplier was one of the most influential literary voices in the United States. In the engaging volume Americans and Others, Repplier turns her trademark wit and insight toward her native country and explores subjects pertaining to the American sensibility, ranging from humor to etiquette and beyond.