A voyage to Guinea, Brasil and the West Indies : $b in His Majesty's ships, the Swallow and Weymouth

by John Atkins

"A Voyage to Guinea, Brasil, and the West Indies" by John Atkins is a historical account written in the early 18th century. The work chronicles the author's experiences and observations while serving as a surgeon in the Royal Navy, detailing the various islands and settlements encountered during his voyage. The book covers topics such as the customs, languages, and economies of the native populations, alongside remarks on the slave trade and other commodities such as gold and ivory. The opening of the book presents the context of Atkins' journey, outlining the preparations made before setting sail from Portsmouth in early February. He mentions the purpose of the voyage, which includes supporting the Royal African Company and combating piracy. Atkins reflects on the hardships faced by those whose livelihoods depend on the sea, also touching upon philosophical musings about life, trade, and the interactions between different cultures. The narrative promises to engage readers with rich descriptions of the lands visited, as well as the complexities of maritime trade and the human experiences entwined in these endeavors.