Observations upon the Windward Coast of Africa: The Religion, Character Customs of the Natives

Abstract

With becoming deference, I shall endeavor to illustrate in the following pages, the observations I have personally made upon the Coast of Africa, and to give the information I have obtained from an extended circle of Chiefs, and native Tribes, relative to its Inhabitants, their Religion, Habits and Customs, the natural productions and commercial resources, &c. and attempt to delineate the most eligible grounds upon which the condition of the African may be effectually improved, and our commercial relations be preserved with that important quarter of the glob€!, Though deeply impressed with the importance of the subject, and my own incompetency, I obtrude myself upon Public notice; governed by this reflection, that I am stimulated by an ardent zeal for the prosperity of my Country, and am animated by a philanthropic solicitude for the effectual manumission of the African , from his enslaved customs, his superstitious idolatry, and for the enlargement of his intellectual powers.