Journal of an expedition to explore the course and termination of the Niger, Vol. 2 (of 3)

This mid‑19th‑century journal records a British expedition setting out to chart the elusive course of the Niger River. The narrative blends careful geographical observation with personal encounters, offering readers a front‑row seat to the challenges of navigating uncharted waters and the complexities of local politics. Readers follow the explorers as they negotiate with kings, receive gifts, and document the landscape with detailed maps and engravings.

Among the most striking episodes is the encounter with Widow Zuma, a resilient local figure whose forced exile and vivid storytelling illuminate the region’s turbulent social fabric. The authors describe the river’s rocky barrier, the cramped canoes, and the stark contrast between the regal court’s understated splendor and the harsh realities of river travel. Richly illustrated, the volume brings the era’s spirit to life, making the early stages of this historic quest both intimate and compelling.