Nothing obsessed explorers of the mid-nineteenth century more than the quest to discover the source of the White Nile. It was the planet's most elusive secret; the prize coveted above all others. Between 1856 and 1876; six larger-than-life men and one extraordinary woman accepted the challenge. Showing extreme courage and resilience; Richard Burton; John Hanning Speke; James Augustus Grant; Samuel Baker; Florence von Sass; David Livingstone; and Henry Morton Stanley risked their lives and reputations in the fierce competition. Award-winning author Tim Jeal deploys fascinating new research to provide a vivid tableau of the unmapped "Dark Continent;" its jungle deprivations; and the courage—as well as malicious tactics—of the explorers.On multiple forays launched into east and central Africa; the travelers passed through almost impenetrable terrain and suffered the ravages of flesh-eating ulcers; paralysis; malaria; deep spear wounds; and even death. They discovered Lakes Tanganyika and Victoria and became the first white people to encounter the kingdoms of Buganda and Bunyoro. Jeal weaves the story with authentic new detail and examines the tragic unintended legacy of the Nile search that still casts a long shadow over the people of Uganda and Sudan.
#1174303 in Books William M Schniedewind 2013-12-10Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.25 x 1.00 x 6.12l; 1.25 #File Name: 0300176686280 pagesA Social History of Hebrew
Review
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Any student of Hebrew; Jewish history; or biblical history will find treasure in this book.By RollaMikeThis book was a delight to read as a seminary student who is often confronted with assigned textbooks that are useful but hard to read enjoyably. This book is different. It reads smoothly; the flow presented through history is understandable; and yet it is an excellent resource for advanced study. Knowledge of Biblical Hebrew enhances the reading experience; but is not necessary at all to gain greater depth of understanding of its history; especially in how it became the core structure of modern Judaism.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. It is a great read and insightful about the evolution of language in ...By TraingrlThis book delivers on its title; walking through a history of the Hebrew language from a social development perspective. It is a great read and insightful about the evolution of language in the ancient Near East.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. A great read. I could not put this book downBy Joseph GreenbaumA great read. I could not put this book down. Explains biblical / Jewish history from s new prospective .