Publisher's Synopsis
The First Footsteps in East Africa is a travelogue written by Richard F. Burton, a British explorer, in the mid-19th century. In this book, Burton describes his journey to East Africa, where he explored the region's geography, flora, and fauna, as well as the customs and traditions of the local people. He also provides insights into the political and economic situation of the region during his time there.The book is divided into several chapters, each focusing on a different aspect of Burton's journey. He starts by describing his arrival in Zanzibar, where he spent several months learning the Swahili language and preparing for his expedition. Burton then travels inland, visiting various towns and villages along the way. He encounters different tribes, such as the Wa-Pokomo and the Wa-Kamba, and documents their way of life.Throughout the book, Burton provides detailed descriptions of the landscape, including the vegetation, rivers, and mountains. He also describes the animals he encounters, such as elephants, lions, and giraffes. His observations of the natural world are informed by his background as a geographer and anthropologist.The First Footsteps in East Africa is an important historical document that provides insights into the early exploration of the African continent. It is also a fascinating travelogue that captures the spirit of adventure and discovery that characterized the Victorian era. Burton's vivid descriptions of the people, places, and wildlife of East Africa make this book a must-read for anyone interested in African history and culture.By the side of the camels ride my three attendants, the pink of Somali fashion. Their frizzled wigs are radiant with grease; their Tobes are splendidly white, with borders dazzlingly red; their new shields are covered with canvass cloth; and their two spears, poised over the right shoulder, are freshly scraped, oiled, blackened, and polished. They have added my spare rifle, and guns to the camel-load; such weapons are well enough at Aden, in Somali-land men would deride the outlandish tool!This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.
