John Hanning Speke

In "What Led to the Discovery of the Source of the Nile," John Hanning Speke presents a detailed account of his explorations in East Africa, culminating in his contentious claim to have located the Niles source at Lake Victoria. Written in a vivid narrative style that blends scientific observation with personal reflection, the book captures the complexities of 19th-century exploration, including the intersections of geography, politics, and cultural encounters. Spekes meticulous documentation of his journeys serves as both an adventure tale and an ethnographic study, providing insights into the landscapes and peoples he encountered, while grappling with the scientific fervor of the era. John Hanning Speke (1827-1864) was a British explorer driven by an insatiable curiosity and a desire to contribute to the age of discovery. His experiences in India and subsequent fascination with African geography fueled his ambition to locate the Niles source. Spekes pioneering paths were marked by challenges, rivalries, and the weight of imperial expectation, which shaped his narrative as he sought not only geographical truths but also personal recognition. This book is essential for readers interested in exploration, colonial history, and the fervent spirit of inquiry that characterized the Victorian era. Spekes work invites reflection on the interplay between reality and myth in the quest for knowledge, making it a compelling read for historians, adventurers, and literary enthusiasts alike.

Esta obra en dos tomos recogidos en un solo volumen recoge la fiel y completa traducción al castellano del testimonio en primera persona del explorador británico John Hanning Speke sobre la expedición que dirigio a finales de la decada de los cincuenta del siglo XIX en busca de las Fuentes del Nilo. Aunque hoy sabemos que fue el jesuita Pedro Paez Jaramillo el primer europeo que encontro este enclave geografico en el siglo XVII, es Speke quien ha conseguido abrirse hueco en la historia de la exploracion al documentar con este diario la mision que le encargo el presidente de la Royal Geographical Society, sir Roderick Murchison, en un siglo en el que los europeos se encontraban en una apasionante carrera por explorar los espacios mas reconditos del continente africano. La presente edicion facsimil incluye curiosisimos grabados sobre los animales, la fauna y las gentes que habitaban los lugares explorados, ademas de varios mapas, de los que destaca el que describe la ruta que recorrio Speke con el proposito de encontrar el vinculo entre el rio Nilo y el lago Victoria.

In "What Led to the Discovery of the Source of the Nile," John Hanning Speke embarks on a meticulous exploration of one of the most significant geographical quests of the Victorian era. Speke combines detailed observations, personal anecdotes, and an empirical approach to recount his perilous journey through central Africa, blending elements of travel literature and scientific inquiry. Written in a period marked by fervent interest in African exploration, Spekes narrative is not merely an adventure tale; it also engages with the eras colonial mindset and the complex interplay of ambition, discovery, and the consequences of imperialism. John Hanning Speke, an English explorer born in 1827, was deeply influenced by his military background and robust interest in geography, which led him to participate in several expeditions across Africa. His rivalry with contemporaries, notably Richard Burton, and his drive to secure his legacy as the discoverer of the Niles source reflect the competitive spirit of his time. Spekes expertise in botany and his keen observations of local cultures also inform his writings, offering insights into the landscapes and peoples he encountered. This seminal work is highly recommended for readers intrigued by exploration narratives, the complexities of 19th-century colonialism, and the evolution of geographical knowledge. Spekes account not only enriches our understanding of the Niles discovery but also provides a compelling reflection on the human spirits quest for knowledge, making it essential reading for historians and adventurers alike.In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:- A succinct Introduction situates the works timeless appeal and themes.- The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists.- A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the eras events and influences that shaped the writing.- A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings.- Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the works messages, connecting them to modern life.- Handpicked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance.- Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.

Entre los grandes exploradores de África, John Hanning Speke fue sin duda el más tenaz. Logró lo que ningún otro consiguió a pesar de ser muchos los que intentaron durante cientos de años y desde los dias de Neron. Fue el primer occidental en localizar las fuentes del Nilo en el lago Victoria. Nadie se lo reconocio en su dia y tuvieron que pasar catorce años desde el descubrimiento, y doce desde su muerte, para que el mundo de la geografia y la exploracion reconociese el valor de sus afirmaciones. De modo que no pudo disfrutar en vida de una gloria bien merecida. Su diario tiene la virtud de contagiar el entusiasmo y despertar en nosotros el espiritu aventurero que guio al autor en su largo periplo. Este libro es el relato de aquella hazaña y hay que leerlo como un libro de aventuras, que es lo que realmente es, con el valor añadido de ser real.