In the 19th century, the source of the Nile River remained one of the greatest mysteries of geographic exploration. The story of how the British eventually found it is one of adventure, danger, and bravery, but also arrogance, envy, and resentment.
Here to offer some snapshots from this dramatic expedition is Candice Millard, author of River of the Gods: Genius, Courage, and Betrayal in the Search for the Source of the Nile. Today on the show, Candice shares how two men who were very much opposites, Richard Francis Burton and John Hanning Speke, ventured together on two years-long expeditions to locate the source of the longest and most legendary river in the world, the harrowing obstacles they faced in their quest, and how their partnership devolved into a bitter rivalry. Along the way, we discuss what made Burton such a compelling character, why we remember his name but not Speke's, and the African guide who was the unheralded hero in the achievements of both men.
Resources Related to the PodcastListen to the episode on a separate page.
Download this episode.
Subscribe to the podcast in the media player of your choice.
Listen ad-free on Stitcher Premium; get a free month when you use code "manliness" at checkout.
Launch a Million-Dollar Business This Weekend
The Case for Minding Your Own Business
The Mundanity of Excellence
A Guide to Protecting Yourself Against Unexpected Violence
Come Alive Again by Having More Fun
An Insider's Guide to the Rise of the American Mafia
How Curiosity Conversations Can Supercharge Your Success
Feeling Depressed and Discombobulated? Social Acceleration May Be to Blame
The Power of NEAT — Move a Little to Lose a Lot
The Feel-Good Method of Productivity
Fat Loss Made Simple
Declutter, Downsize, and Move Forward With Your Life
Duty, Honor, and the Unlikely Heroes Who Helped Win the Battle of the Bulge
Season’s Screenings — A Tour of Classic Christmas Movies
The Hobbit Virtues
A Carpenter's Notes on the Art of Good Work
Unpacking The Emotion No One Likes to Talk About
Increase Your Influence With the Science of Immersion
Turn Your Anxiety Into a Strength
Counterintuitive Ideas About Marriage, Family, and Kids
Create your
podcast in
minutes
It is Free