eBooks de Biografías, página 5 de 1009

Olaudah Equiano, known for most of his life as Gustavus Vassa, was a writer and abolitionist from, according to his memoir, the Eboe region of the Kingdom of Benin."The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano" is Olaudah Equianos autobiography. The book, which was published in 1789, describes Equianos life in slavery, beginning with his kidnapping by slave traders at age eleven. Equiano travelled extensively with his master, the captain of a British trading vessel, and was allowed to own minor trade exchanges. In 1766, he used his savings to purchase his freedom. He obtained a job working for a scientist in England, while also travelling as an abolitionist and public speaker. His autobiography is noted for its combination of literary forms--epistolary form, travel narrative, slave narrative, and religious meditation.

"The Dukes Children" is the sixth and final Palliser series novel by Anthony Trollope, a compelling exploration of wealth, pride and ultimately the strength of love.Between the close of "The Prime Minister" and the opening of "The Dukes Children", the Duchess of Omnium died, leaving to the Duke the care of his three children. The eldest, Lord Silverbridge, had been sent down from Oxford as a result of a certain amount of red paint applied to the front of the Deans house; the second son, Lord Gerald Palliser, was doing indifferently well at Cambridge; Lady Mary Palliser, the only daughter, was determined on what seemed to her father an unsuitable marriage...While the Dukes dearest wishes for the three are thwarted one by one, he ultimately comes to understand that parents can learn from their own children.Novels in the Palliser series:1- Can You Forgive Her? (1864)2- Phineas Finn (1869)3- The Eustace Diamonds (1873)4- Phineas Redux (1874)5- The Prime Minister (1876)6- The Dukes Children (1879)The series overlaps with Trollopes Chronicles of Barsetshire, also a series of six novels, which deal with life in the fictional county where the Palliser family is politically important.

In "Inferno", the psychologically disturbed narrator sets forth on a journey through an earthly hell and emerges purified of his sins.Alchemy, schizophrenia, witchcraft, and religious fanaticism, all leavened with a knowing wink of humour, "Inferno", by Swedish author August Strindberg is an early example of the unreliable narrator literary device, in which the reader learns that the storyteller is seeing things from a distorted perspective. It is also deliciously macabre."Inferno" is for the most part based on a diary that Strindberg kept between 1896 and 1908 - undoubtedly the most troubled period of his life.

Born into slavery in 1818, Frederick Douglass would escape and gain his freedom by his 20th birthday. But rather than be content with his own liberty, he worked to gain attention for the cause of abolition, or the end of slavery. He was particularly gifted in his use of both the written and spoken word, making many doubt that he was ever a slave. "My Bondage and My Freedom", published in 1855, is an example of a genre of literature known as the slave narrative. This genre flourished from around 1760 and though the first few decades after the abolition of slavery. One of the most famous examples is the interesting "Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano", but the most famous writer of a slave a narrative almost certainly has to be Frederick Douglas. So much did the iconoclastic Douglass have to share about the reality of slavery that "My Bondage and My Freedom" is actually his second publication. The firstand more famousis his groundbreaking "Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave: Written by Himself".Technically, "My Bondage and My Freedom" is considered a revised and expanded version of that original publication in that it serves to update readers on what has occurred in the decade since the earlier narrative was published. These additions are primarily focused on his encounter with racism in the northern states, his activism in the name of abolition, most significantly, his decision to break away from William Lloyd Garrison and the white abolitionist leaders to establish the primacy of the black voice in the call to end slavery.Central to this slave narrative if Douglass fervent expression of his contention that the institutions of slavery corrupts and dehumanises not just the slave, but the slaveowner and non-slaveholder who condones the practice.

In 1869, Empson Edward Middleton, an English ex-soldier and man of means, built himself a 23-foot sailboat and set about becoming the first man to single-handedly circumnavigate England. He chose the most difficult route he could think of, one of poorly charted sea lanes and powerful tides, and recorded his remarkable feat in this book, which served as his log and diary. The Cruise of the Kate is an incredible tale from the days when all a navigator had to steer by was the compass and the stars, along with the occasional landmark and passing vessels. Middletons lively, detailed account of his daring but successful voyage brings to life the condition of solo ocean sailing more than a century ago.

First published in 1926, "Seven Pillars of Wisdom" by T. E. Lawrence is the story of the Arab Revolt against the Turkish Empire and Lawrences role in it. Lawrence, educated at Oxford, begins by working for a museum on an archaeological dig in the Middle East at the outbreak of the First World War. He is commissioned into the British Army while at the Euphrates and is attached to the Hejaz Expeditionary Force with Lawrence functioning as the British soldier attached to the Arab leadership in the revolt against the Turks. The Arab region is a part of the Ottoman Empire at the opening of the book. Turkey is an ally of Germany in the war and England feels that helping the Arabs defeat the Turks helps England in her war against Germany."Seven Pillars of Wisdom" is an unusual and rich work. It encompasses an account of the Arab Revolt against the Turks during the First World War alongside general Middle Eastern and military history, politics, adventure and drama. It is also a memoir of the soldier known as Lawrence of Arabia. Lawrence is a fascinating and controversial figure and his talent as a vivid and imaginative writer shines through on every page of this, his masterpiece. "Seven Pillars of Wisdom" provides a unique portrait of this extraordinary man and an insight into the birth of the Arab nation.

Battle for the Solomons is Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter Ira Wolferts dazzling account of the fierce land, sea, and air fighting in the Solomon Islands during 1942. Wolfert was in the thick of it, facing death alongside the troops, and he reproduces events as they happen in real time, making for a tense, suspenseful read. Wolfert risked his life for the sake of authenticity, and survived to write this, one of the most remarkable combat memoirs of World War 2.

Can You Forgive Her?, first published in serial form in 1864 and 1865, is the first in a series of six Trollope novels (known as the Palliser series) dealing broadly with 19th Century English political scene. It introduces the reader to Plantagenet and Glencora Palliser, as they court, marry, and as Plantagenet sets out on his political career, which is carried on in the foreground or background throughout the series. Each novel has a focus on other particular characters, as well. In this one, it is the dilemma of Alice Vavasor, who is a young woman choosing between two suitors: one who has all the best qualities, but who prefers a retiring private life, and another, whose qualities are doubtful, but who is ambitious for public office. There is also a comic subplot involving a widowed aunt, who also must choose between two suitors: Mr. Cheeseacre, a dull but stable farmer, and Capt. Bellfield, a charming but somewhat erratic retired military man.Novels in the Palliser series:1- Can You Forgive Her? (1864)2- Phineas Finn (1869)3- The Eustace Diamonds (1873)4- Phineas Redux (1874)5- The Prime Minister (1876)6- The Dukes Children (1879)The series overlaps with Trollopes Chronicles of Barsetshire, also a series of six novels, which deal with life in the fictional county where the Palliser family is politically important.

"In the Heart of Africa" is a classic African explorer biography by Samuel White Baker. The story developed during "In the Heart of Africa" is summarised at the beginning of the novel by the narrator and protagonist:"In March, 1861, I commenced an expedition to discover the sources of the Nile, with the hope of meeting the East African expedition of Captains Speke and Grant, that had been sent by the English Government from the South via Zanzibar, for the same object. I had not the presumption to publish my intention, as the sources of the Nile had hitherto defied all explorers, but I had inwardly determined to accomplish this difficult task or to die in the attempt."

My Fighting Congregation is the World War 2 combat diary of U.S. Army Chaplain William Taggart. His book details his work with servicemen aboard US ships in the Pacific, and the work he performed alongside Allied troops fighting on Java and stationed in Australia.

"Correspondence" is a magnificent collection of letters written by the post-Cartesian philosopher Benedict de Spinoza during the 17th century. It was impossible for so bold and original a thinker as Spinoza not to take his part in the discussion of the new results that came pouring from the laboratories in a manner reminiscent of our own times, more especially as he was earning his living by grinding lenses. It is true that he made no original contribution to the scientific thought of the day, and likewise made no experimental discoveries. Nevertheless, from his letters we can form a lively picture of those days when so many science discoveries were happening.However, the chief interest of the letters is undoubtedly for the philosophers who find therein discussed at length Spinozas conception of God, but the man of science, as such, who has the faintest historic sense cannot but be entertained to find himself in a world where the transmutation of silver to gold witnessed by Helvetius was a matter of lively inquiry, and where the authority of Descartes was well-nigh absolute.

"In Ghostly Japan" is a collection of 13 stories collected by Lafcadio Hearn that contains Japanese ghost stories, but also several non-fiction pieces. Hearn tries to give a glimpse into the customs of the Japanese, by giving examples of Buddhist Proverbs and explaining the use of incense and the nation wide fascination with poetry.A perfect collection of deathless images of ghosts and goblins, touches of folklore and superstition, salted with traditions of the nation.The Japanese have two kinds of ghosts in their folklorethe spirits of the dead, and the spirits of the living. This classic of Japanese literature invites you to take your choice if you dare.

"Famous Impostors" was Bram Stokers fifth and final book of nonfiction, first published in the UK in 1910.Aliases. Fraudsters. Confidence tricksters. People pretending to be what they are not, for financial, political or personal gain. Fiction is filled with them to entertain us; but would not be anywhere near as believable if such people had not, in reality, existed since time immemorial. In "Famous Impostors", the great Bram Stoker (author of "Dracula") throws light on just a few such people, who have tricked their way into the annals of history.

In "The Teeth of the Tiger", Maurice Leblanc delivers another Arsene Lupin adventure set in World War I. Arsene Lupin is the French counterpart to the English Sherlock Holmes, a sincere hero who has failings, which ender him to the reader. This romance and adventure/thriller is by far the best of the Lupin series."The Teeth of the Tiger" tells the story of the final Will of a man named Mornington, who, in the year 1900, left behind the sum of $400 million francs. Of that, three-fourths went to his adopted country - which left $100 million francs to be distributed to his heirs. The executor of the estate was Morningtons friend, Don Luis Perenna (AKA Arsene Lupin). The problem, however, was that no one knew where (or even who) some of the heirs were. If no heirs were to be found within 3 months, the entire $100 million francs would go to Perenna. And Lupin had a reputation as being something of a rogue. It is definitely a race against time, as the heirs seem to be turning up dead at an alarming rate.

Immerse yourself in the timeless brilliance of Charles Dickens with The Charles Dickens Collection by Steppenwolf Press. This exquisite anthology brings together twelve of his most iconic works, offering a sweeping journey through the drama, humor, and humanity that define his legacy. Begin with A Tale of Two Cities, where the chaos of the French Revolution sets the stage for a powerful story of love and sacrifice. Walk the shadowed streets of Victorian London in Oliver Twist, where innocence and cruelty clash in a world of desperate survival. With Hard Times, delve into Dickens sharp critique of industrial society, exposing the cold logic of utilitarianism and its impact on the human spirit. Explore the intricate web of secrets and corruption in Bleak House, a masterful tale of love and greed entwined with the inefficiencies of the legal system. Follow the deeply personal journey of David Copperfield, a poignant coming-of-age story filled with unforgettable characters and universal truths. In Dombey and Son, witness a powerful exploration of family, ambition, and redemption, and in Little Dorrit, unravel the quiet yet profound drama of a world trapped by social and personal debts. Experience Dickens satirical genius in Martin Chuzzlewit, a story of selfishness and transformation, and savor the rich humor and heartfelt drama of Nicholas Nickleby, where courage and kindness shine against cruelty. Our Mutual Friend paints a vivid picture of greed, love, and redemption amid the murky waters of Victorian social change, while Great Expectations unfolds a haunting and deeply moving tale of ambition, betrayal, and forgiveness. Rounding out this collection is Barnaby Rudge, a gripping historical novel set during the Gordon Riots, blending history, love, and rebellion in one of Dickens lesser-known but equally compelling works. Through these stories, Dickens introduces us to some of literatures most memorable characters: the enigmatic Miss Havisham, the fiercely determined David Copperfield, the cunning Fagin, and many more. Each tale reflects his unparalleled ability to capture the complexities of human nature while painting a vivid portrait of the eras struggles and triumphs. The Charles Dickens Collection by Steppenwolf Press is more than a compilationits a celebration of one of the greatest literary minds in history. Beautifully curated and elegantly presented, this volume invites readers to rediscover the magic of Dickens or to experience it for the first time. Its a journey into the heart of storytelling, one that will leave you moved, inspired, and forever touched by his genius.

As early as 1920, US Army General Billy Mitchell began sounding alarm bells about an inevitable Japanese invasion from sea-based aircraft. Through the press and in person he lobbied naval brass about Americas woefully unprepared defensive air power but his talk of dogfights over the Pacific with superior planes was laughed at and dismissed by all. Mitchells vision of a US Air Arm would have meant massive, costly upgrades to the nations dated flying machines owned by private firms holding patents on aircraft machinery. Old guard soldiers, like John J. Pershing, dismissed as delusional ravings Mitchells belief that a battleship could be destroyed by a bomber. Mitchells outspoken press conferences about an airplane trust supported by corrupt government officials led to his court-martial for insubordination in 1925. He died in 1936, a man ahead of his times and hated for it.

Compiled and Edited by Charles W. Eliot in 1909, the Harvard Classics is a 51-volume Anthology of classic literature from throughout the history of western civilization. The set is sometimes called "Eliots Five-Foot Shelf."This e-book includes all 51 volumes PLUS the Harvard Classic Shelf of Fiction, the equivalent of over 30,000 printed pages in one e-book!

"Hospital Sketches" is a fictionalised account of Louisa May Alcotts experiences nursing during the Civil War and presented in a collection of letters. The book garnered Alcotts first critical recognition for her observations and humour.Tribulation Periwinkle, looking for something to do, follow the suggestion of her brother, Tom, and decided to become a nurse for the Union Army. However, her difficulties begin before she even gets to the hospital. She describes the inconveniences of travel on her way to Washington, D.C. Once Nurse Periwinkle arrives at the Hurly-Burly Hotel, a temporary hospital, she has to learn how to nurse.

"The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin" is a blueprint for the prototypical American, chronicling Benjamin Franklins life as a printer, diplomat, statesman, patriot, scientist, inventor, and writer. Published posthumously in various forms over several years, first in French and then in English, Franklins autobiography is a literary achievement worthy of the epic U.S. founding father. Franklin originally intended the document of his life and works to be for the sole use and enjoyment of his son, William. Hence, Franklin wrote his autobiography in the form of an extended letter to his son. While recording the events of his life, he adds instructions for good living which makes this work Americas first How to Succeed book.

"Letters on England" is a collection of letters created by Voltaire after his three-year exile to England (1726-9) following imprisonment in the Bastille for his satirical writings. Voltaire wrote this series of letters offering the French public a panoramic view of English culture. He was full of enthusiasm and freedom - as opposed to the tyrannical feudal society of his homeland. "Letters on England" discusses English religious sects, politics, scientists and writers with great admiration, yet the clever Voltaire also flattered his French readers with humorous references to the old-fashioned clothes and speech of the Quakers and to antics in the House of Commons. At first banned in France, this intriguing and often comic account of a culture viewed through foreign eyes was to prove highly influential in shaping French attitudes to England.