Glances at Europe
 In a Series of Letters from Great Britain, France, Italy, Switzerland, &c. During the Summer of 1851.

by Horace Greeley

"Glances at Europe" by Horace Greeley is a travelogue written in the mid-19th century. This work is presented as a series of letters from Greeley as he traverses Great Britain, France, Italy, and Switzerland during the summer of 1851. It encompasses his observations on various societal and cultural aspects of the countries he visits, alongside notes about the Great Exhibition, or World's Fair, which serves as a central theme in some of his reflections. The opening of the work sets the stage for Greeley's journey, beginning with his experience crossing the Atlantic Ocean on the steamship Baltic. He candidly describes the discomforts of sea travel, including his battle with seasickness, to convey the harsh realities of voyaging in his time. As he transitions into his arrival in Europe, Greeley expresses his intent to offer genuine impressions of his travels, prioritizing authentic encounters and observations over preconceived notions or guidebooks. He emphasizes his goal of capturing the essence of outdoor life and social conditions across Western Europe, while preparing his readers for both insightful and critical reflections on the people and cultures he encounters.