Travels in West Africa: Congo Français, Corisco and Cameroons

Name: Travels in West Africa: Congo Français, Corisco and Cameroons
Author: Mary Henrietta Kingsley

By Mary Henrietta Kingsley

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Archaeology & Anthropology Travel Writing

About This Book

The author records voyages along the West African coast and upriver into the interior, describing island stops, river rapids, and an ascent of a prominent volcanic peak. She records encounters with local communities, their everyday customs, artisanal practices, and detailed accounts of ritual and fetish observances. Extended chapters examine trade networks, labour patterns, and the effects of climate and disease on residents and visitors. Travel anecdotes and practical field notes are interwoven with ethnographic description and reflective commentary on landscape and everyday life. An appendix considers the origins and workings of a traditional cloth loom.

About the Author

Mary Henrietta Kingsley

Mary Henrietta Kingsley was a British explorer and writer known for her travels in West Africa during the late 19th century. Her notable works, including "Travels in West Africa: Congo Français, Corisco and Cameroons" and "West African Studies," provide valuable insights into the cultures and landscapes of the region. Kingsley's writings are characterized by her keen observations and her advocacy for the understanding of African societies. She challenged contemporary views of Africa and contributed to the discourse on colonialism and cultural appreciation. Her adventurous spirit and commitment to documenting her experiences have left a lasting impact on the field of exploration and ethnography.