
author
1875–1956
A French army officer, geographer, and explorer, he is remembered for mapping and studying parts of Central Africa and the Sahara in the early 20th century. His travel accounts and scientific reports bring together adventure, field observation, and careful measurement.
Born in Domme, France, on May 1, 1875, Jean Tilho published under the name Jean Tilho, though his full name was Auguste Jean Marie Tilho. He served in the French army and became closely associated with geographic and surveying work, especially in Chad and the wider Sahara region.
Tilho took part in major expeditions across Central Africa and is known for his mapping, topographic, and scientific studies of places including Lake Chad, Tibesti, Borkou, Ennedi, and nearby regions. His books and reports reflect both the hardships of exploration and a strong interest in astronomy, geodesy, and cartography.
He later rose to the rank of general and remained recognized for his contributions to exploration and geographic knowledge. He died in Paris on April 8, 1956.