Stanley : The Impossible Life of Africas Greatest Explorer

English

ISBN: 0300126255

EAN: 9780300126259

Category: Biography & Autobiography / Adventurers & Explorers

Publisher: Yale University Press

Release Date: 09/30/2007

Synopsis: Henry Morton Stanley, so the tale goes, was a cruel imperialist who connived with King Leopold II of Belgium in horrific crimes against the people of the Congo. He also conducted the most legendary celebrity interview in history, opening with, Dr. Livingstone, I presume? But these perceptions are not quite true, Tim Jeal shows in this grand and colorful biography. With unprecedented access to previously closed Stanley family archives, Jeal reveals the amazing extent to which Stanleys public career and intimate life have been misunderstood and undervalued. Jeal recovers the reality of Stanleys lifea life of almost impossible extremesin this moving story of tragedy, adventure, disappointment, and success. Few have started life as disadvantaged as Stanley. Rejected by both parents and consigned to a Welsh workhouse, he emigrated to America as a penniless eighteen-year-old. Jeal vividly re-creates Stanleys rise to success, his friendships and romantic relationships, and his life-changing decision to assume an American identity. Stanleys epic but unfairly forgotten African journeys are thrillingly described, establishing the explorer as the greatest to set foot on the continent. Few biographies can claim so thoroughly to reappraise a reputation; few portray a more extraordinary historical figure.

Awards: Independent Publisher Book Awards ( IPPYs ) – null  Independent Publisher Book Awards ( IPPYs ) – null  Independent Publisher Book Awards ( IPPYs ) – null  Independent Publisher Book Awards ( IPPYs ) – null 

Excerpt: Unknown Property Excerpt

Stanley : The Impossible Life of Africas Greatest Explorer

Illustrated: Yes

Format: Hardcover

Height: 1.63 inches

Width: 6.13 inches

Length: 9.25 inches

Weight: 35.27 oz

Pages: 608