The Discovery of the Source of the Nile

audiobook

The Discovery of the Source of the Nile

by John Hanning Speke

EN·~19 hours

Chapters

Description

A young British officer leaves his military career behind and sets sail for Zanzibar, driven by a restless curiosity about the uncharted heart of Africa. The early chapters follow his arduous trek through unfamiliar territories, where he encounters the varied peoples, landscapes, and customs of the interior. His keen eye records the stark beauty of lakes, savannas, and dense wilderness, while his interactions with local leaders reveal both hospitality and tension.

As the expedition pushes deeper, the explorer’s focus sharpens on the elusive source of the great river that has long puzzled scholars. He navigates treacherous waters and negotiates with tribal communities, gradually piecing together clues that point toward a massive inland lake. The narrative balances vivid travelogue with thoughtful reflections on the cultures he meets, offering listeners a vivid portrait of a continent on the brink of discovery.

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Details

Language

en

Duration

~19 hours (1139K characters)

Publisher of text edition

Project Gutenberg

Credits

Produced by Laura Shaffer, J.C. Byers, and David Widger

Release date

2002-06-01

Rights

Public domain in the USA.

About the author

John Hanning Speke

John Hanning Speke

1827–1864

Best known for his dramatic search for the source of the Nile, this Victorian explorer turned dangerous journeys across East Africa into one of the great adventure stories of the 19th century. His travels, debates, and bold claims made him a famous and controversial figure in his own time.

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