Transatlantic Sketches
Comprising Visits to the Most Interesting Scenes in North and South America, and the West Indies

A two-volume account, published in 1833, of a well-travelled British Army officer's insights into diverse landscapes, peoples and practices.

James Edward Alexander (Author)

9781108051880, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 14 June 2012

426 pages, 5 b/w illus. 1 map
21.6 x 14 x 2.4 cm, 0.54 kg

Sir James Edward Alexander (1803–85), an officer in the British Army, travelled the world extensively and published over a dozen fascinating accounts of his journeys. A passionate and intrepid explorer, Alexander was instrumental in ensuring the safe transfer of Cleopatra's Needle from Egypt to England in 1877. Demonstrating the same humour with which his writing is imbued, he later buried pictures of the twelve most beautiful English women of the time at the base of the Needle. Published in 1833, this two-volume work offers insights into the landscapes, peoples and practices of the Americas. With wit and eloquence, Alexander takes the reader with him on his adventures, but also provides significant commentary on the slave populations he encountered. Volume 1 covers Alexander's journey through South America and the Caribbean.

Introduction
1. Embark in a ship bound for South America
2. Land at Stabroek
3. Desire to visit the interior
4. On the Indian tribes of British Guiana
5. Settlers on the coast
6. Descend the Essequibo
7. The important question of the abolition of slavery
8. Visit the Morocco coast of Essequibo
9. Embark in a schooner bound to Barbadoes
10. Leave Enmore to make the tour of the island
11. The great hurricane of 1831
12. Sail from Barbadoes
13. Sail from Tobago
14. The British government judiciously preserves the laws of conquered colonies
15. Sail from Trinidad
16. Discourse on military matters continued
17. Leave Grenada
18. Sail in his Majesty's brig Reindeer for Jamaica
19. Summary account of the treatment of slaves under British masters
20. Sail in his Majesty's frigate Blanche for Cuba
21. Population of Havannah
22. Statistical account of Cuba.

Subject Areas: History of the Americas [HBJK]