Final answer:
Edgar Allan Poe is the 19th-century American writer known for a significant body of short stories, such as "The Purloined Letter."Edgar A. Poe was an American writer who wrote a significant number of short stories in the 19th century, particularly in the genres of horror and mystery.
Step-by-step explanation:
Edgar Allan Poe and the 19th Century Short Story
Of the American writers listed who penned a significant number of short stories in the 19th century, Edgar Allan Poe is the correct choice. Poe is renowned for his contributions to the form of the short story, and his works such as "The Purloined Letter" (1844) showcase his mastery of this literary form. His writing came at a time when the American publishing industry was beginning to flourish, allowing authors to reach a wider audience thanks to innovations like the First Transcontinental Railroad and steam-powered printing presses. Poe's stories were part of an expanding American literary culture in an era of significant social and technological change, which brought about a greater appreciation for leisure and literature.