River of the Gods: Genius, Courage and Betrayal in the Search for the Source of the Nile

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2022

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Summary

Background

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue-Part 1, Chapter 3

Part 1, Chapters 4-5

Part 2, Chapters 6-8

Part 2, Chapters 9-11

Part 2, Chapters 12-13

Part 3, Chapters 14-15

Part 3, Chapters 16-17

Part 4, Chapters 18-19

Part 4, Chapter 20-Epilogue

Key Figures

Themes

Index of Terms

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Countless non-European explorers supported some of the most famous European-led expeditions, yet their contributions remain largely unknown by the public today. How does Candice Millard try to rectify this misguided perception that Europeans alone mapped the world? Is she successful in highlighting the non-Europeans who supported Burton and Speke? Why or why not?

After a disastrous first expedition to find the source of the White Nile, why do you think Burton took Speke as his second-in-command for the second expedition? Do you think their fallout was inevitable? Why or why not?

Compare and contrast Burton and Speke’s leadership styles and characters. How were the two men different or similar? Who was the most effective leader? How and why?