What Led to the Discovery of the Source of the Nile

by John Hanning Speke

"What Led to the Discovery of the Source of the Nile" by John Hanning Speke is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The work chronicles the author's explorations in Africa, focusing on his journey to uncover the origins of the Nile River, particularly the role of Victoria N'yanza as its primary source. The beginning of the book introduces the author’s motivations for exploring Africa, which stem from his desire to enhance his natural history collections and the advent of an expedition ordered by the Bombay Government to investigate the Somali country. Speke reflects on his military background, his plans for his expedition, and the challenges he faced in securing support and resources. He describes his initial hardships after arriving in Aden, including the reluctance of local chiefs to facilitate his explorations into Somalia. The narrative establishes a sense of adventure and determination, as Speke is determined to navigate both personal challenges and the unfamiliar landscapes, customs, and politics of the region in pursuit of his goal.