The Chronicles of the Discovery and Conquest of Guinea

Abstract

This Volume continues and ends the present edition of the chronicles of guinea, the first of which was published in 1896(vol. xcv of the Hakluyt society publications) here we have again to acknowledge the kind advice and help of various friends particularly of Senhor Batalha Reis and Mr. William Foster. As to the maps which accompany this volume: the sections of Andrea Bianco 1448 and of Fra Mauro 1457-9, here given, offer some of the best examples of the cartography of Prince Henry later years in relation to west Africa. These ancient examples are supplemented by a new sketch map of the discoveries made by the Portuguese seamen during the infant’s lifetime along the coast of the Dark Continent. The excellent photograph of prince henry statue from the great gateway at Belem is the work of Senhor Camacho. As to the introduction and notes, it is hoped that attention has been given to everything really important for the understanding of Azurara’s text: but the editors have avoided such treatment as belongs properly to a detailed history of geographical advance during this period.