1899 West African Studies

Description

First Edition, Illustrated, Publishers' Original Binding

It is said that Kingsley's writings and travels helped to shape the European perception of African cultures and also developed British imperialism. Her publications gained her respect in the scholarly community. In the publisher's original cloth binding. With a frontispiece and twenty-seven illustrations across twenty-three plates. Collated, complete. With two leaves of publisher's adverts to the rear. This work became popular for its scientific content and was the second work Kingsley wrote, its predecessor was called 'Travels in West Africa'. This second work includes Kingsley's research results and presents her theory on how West Africa should be governed. She felt that Britain's methods of ruling, by fighting Africa's religion and established laws, was not the way forward. There are chapters on African characteristics, fishing methods, schools of fetish, witchcraft, African medicine, witch-doctors, commerce, crown colony system and the 'clash of cultures'. She presents her 'alternative plan' eloquently. Stamp of 'Charles R Mapp' to the half-title and his inscription to the verso of front endpaper. Kingsley's stance on imperialism is complex and still widely debated today. This work gives a small insight into her findings and view. She believed that African people and cultures needed protection and preservation, although felt that British economic and technological influence were vital to them. A smart first edition copy of this important work regarding European colonization in the nineteenth century.