Subject
Africa, North -- History Books
Best books
E. Hamilton (Edward Hamilton) Currey
Sea-Wolves of the Mediterranean: The grand period of the Moslem corsairs
"Sea-Wolves of the Mediterranean: The Grand Period of the Moslem Corsairs" by Commander E. Hamilton Currey is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the intriguing and tumultuous era of the Moslem corsairs during the 16th century, focusing particularly on key figures like Uruj and Kheyr-ed-Din Barbarossa. Through detailed narratives, it examines the intersection of piracy, warfare, and the broader socio-religious dynamics that shaped the Mediterranean region in this period. At the start of the narrative, Currey sets the stage by tracing the background of the Moslem corsairs, emphasizing their transformation from exiled warriors in Northern Africa to influential maritime powers. The introduction highlights the historical context following the expulsion of Moriscos from Spain, illustrating how personal grievances, religious zeal, and economic desperation fueled their rise to piracy. We learn about the notorious Barbarossa brothers and their exploits, which include daring attacks against Christian ships and the capturing of fortified locations such as Bougie. Currey effectively establishes the dramatic atmosphere of this age, filled with tumultuous battles, shifting alliances, and the distinctive culture of the sea-rovers, showcasing their lasting impact on the historical narrative of the Mediterranean.
Augustin Bernard
La pénétration saharienne (1830-1906)
"La pénétration saharienne (1830-1906)" by Augustin Bernard and Napoléon Lacroix is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The work focuses on the French exploration and colonization efforts in the Sahara, specifically detailing the attempts to penetrate the region between 1830 and 1906. It likely addresses the geographical, political, and economic factors behind these endeavors, providing insights into the motivations and challenges faced by explorers and colonial powers in the Sahara. The opening of the text introduces the Sahara as an arid region situated between Mediterranean and tropical climates, emphasizing its significance in the context of French colonial aspirations in Algeria. It discusses the early phases of exploration, beginning with France's conquest of Algeria in 1830, and highlights the initial uncertainties regarding the geography and indigenous populations of the area. Early geographical inquiries, often rooted in ancient knowledge, set the stage for scientific exploration that aimed to understand the Sahara better while addressing the political ambitions of France to establish authority and engage in commerce in these remote desert territories.
Alberto P. Guglielmotti
La guerra dei pirati e la marina pontificia dal 1500 al 1560, vol. 1
"La guerra dei pirati e la marina pontificia dal 1500 al 1560, vol. 1" by P. Alberto Guglielmotti is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work explores the significant period of maritime conflict involving piracy, particularly emphasizing the actions of the Pontifical Navy against Muslim piracy during the early 16th century. Guglielmotti aims to unravel the complexities of various naval engagements and historical figures central to these maritime struggles. The opening portion of the text sets the stage for a detailed examination of the piracy landscape at the turn of the century, addressing the rise of Muslim piracy and its detrimental impact on Christian maritime activities. The narrative introduces notable characters, particularly Captain Lodovico del Mosca, who becomes a central figure in the battle against piracy, defending Christian maritime interests. He is depicted as a capable leader dedicated to protecting the seas and the safety of travelers during a time marked by religious conflicts and territorial ambitions, laying the groundwork for an in-depth exploration of his exploits and naval engagements in the chapters that follow.
Ernest Mercier
Histoire de l'Afrique Septentrionale (Berbérie) depuis les temps les plus reculés jusqu'à la conquête française (1830) ( Volume I)
"Histoire de l'Afrique Septentrionale (Berbérie) depuis les temps les plus reculés jusqu'à la conquête française (1830)" by Ernest Mercier is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work explores the complex history of North Africa, focusing particularly on the interactions and influences among the Berber, Arab, and various other cultures throughout ancient and medieval times. It emphasizes both the ethnographic and geographical aspects of the region. The opening of the book presents an extensive preface and introduction where the author outlines his motivations for writing this comprehensive history. Mercier reflects on his long-term engagement with Algeria, detailing the diverse populations he observed and the challenges posed by a lack of scholarly resources. He differentiates key historical events, such as the Arab conquest of the 7th century and the later immigration of the Hilalian tribes in the 11th century, setting a framework for understanding the ethnic transformations and cultural dynamics that shaped North Africa. The introduction also defines the geographical boundaries of North Africa and discusses its physical features, which would provide context for the historical narratives that follow in the subsequent chapters.
Alberto P. Guglielmotti
La guerra dei pirati e la marina pontificia dal 1500 al 1560, vol. 2
"La guerra dei pirati e la marina pontificia dal 1500 al 1560, vol. 2" is a historical account likely written in the late 19th century. This volume, authored by P. Alberto Guglielmotti, delves into the naval conflicts involving the papal navy and various piracy activities during the specified era. The narrative centers on key figures such as Captain Gentil Virginio Orsini, examining the political and military strategies employed by the papal forces as they engage with Ottoman threats and piracy in the Mediterranean. The opening of this work introduces Captain Gentil Virginio Orsini, who is briefly sidelined from command as other political figures, including the newly appointed Legate from the Pope, take precedence in an alliance against the Turks. As preparations for naval warfare intensify, Orsini must navigate the complex political landscape, balancing his personal ambitions with the broader objectives of the papal military efforts. The text hints at significant naval engagements, the dynamics of alliances between Christian powers, and the intricate logistics of military preparation, setting the stage for a detailed exploration of maritime conflicts to come.
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