discovery and exploration

Briefly discusses some of the explorers of the North and South Poles, including Robert Peary, Ernest Shackleton, Matthew Henson, and Donald Macmillan.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Private Hugh McNeal relates his experiences accompanying Captains Lewis and Clark on their 1804 - 1806 expedition in search of a northwest passage to the Pacific Ocean.

Follows the expeditions of Captain James Cook of the British navy, who explored and mapped more of the earth's surface than anyone else in history.

Chronicles the lives and experiences of New York journalist Henry Morton Stanley and Scottish medical missionary David Livingstone, describing the circumstances of their 1871 encounter in Africa and the events that led to and stemmed from it.

We think of Stanley as a cruel imperialist who connived with King Leopold II of Belgium in horrific crimes against the people of the Congo--and the journalist who conducted the most legendary celebrity interview in history, opening with, "Dr. Livingstone, I presume?" But these perceptions are not quite true, as biographer Jeal shows. With access to previously closed Stanley family archives, Jeal reveals the extent to which Stanley's career and life have been misunderstood and undervalued. Few have started life as disadvantaged as Stanley. Rejected by both parents and consigned to a Welsh workhouse, he emigrated to America as a penniless eighteen-year-old. Jeal re-creates Stanley's rise to success, his friendships and romantic relationships, and his life-changing decision to assume an American identity. Stanley's epic but unfairly forgotten African journeys are described, establishing the explorer as the greatest to set foot on the continent.--From publisher description.

Portrays the West African kingdom of Benin as it existed when visited by the Portuguese in 1472 and describes its customs and the ceremony surrounding the Oba.

Describes the quest for India led by explorer Vsco da Gama in 1495 and he arrives there in July of 1497. Discusses the difficulties of the voyage, the spice trade, and additional expeditions where he and his crew face extreme violence. Is accompanied by colorful illustrations and photographs.