George Gardner
Travels in the Interior of Brazil
Principally through the northern provinces, and the gold and diamond districts, during the years 1836-1841
"Travels in the Interior of Brazil" by George Gardner is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. This work chronicles Gardner's explorations of Brazil during the years 1836-1841, with a focus on its northern provinces and the regions rich in gold and diamonds. The narrative aims to offer a detailed depiction of the physical landscape, natural history, and diverse population that Gardner encountered, emphasizing the unique flora and fauna of Brazil, as well as the social dynamics of its various communities. At the start of the narrative, Gardner outlines his motivations for traveling to Brazil, spurred by prior research in natural history and botany. He describes his tumultuous voyage from England, his arrival in Rio de Janeiro, and provides vivid observations of the city's striking yet contrasting environment. Gardner enthusiastically details the city's geography, climate, and the state of slavery, noting both the beauty of its landscapes and the complexity of its social issues. His experiences provide a rich window into Brazil's culture, including the interactions with the local population and the personal adventures he faced while traversing the inner regions, setting the stage for deeper explorations that will follow in subsequent chapters.