African studies in the 19th century

Abstract

The goal of the article is to prove that quite a lot of information was gathered about Central Africa in the 19th century. Geographers, journalists and military officers gathered unique data on the inhabitants and nature of the continent through their expeditions. Blind spots on the map, previously Terra Incognita, were bring cleared. Difficult aspects of distant Africa exploration are also described. These include conflicts with native tribes, natural and climatic hurdles, and tropical diseases. The conclusion is that at the end of 19th century Africa attracted an increased interest on behalf European peoples.