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.
Let the Children Play!
Time Management for Mortals
Do You want to Be Rich or Wealthy? (And Why the Difference Matters)
Why We Get Sick
The Confucian Gentleman
Do You Need to Take a Dopamine Fast?
What the Labors of Hercules Can Teach You About Life and Masculinity
How to Get Time, Priorities, and Energy Working in Your Favor
The Power of Talking to Strangers
The Exercise Prescription for Depression and Anxiety
Life's 10 Biggest Decisions
Rewild Your Life
The Character Traits That Drive Optimal Performance
Being a Man in the Lousy Modern World
College — What It Was, Is, and Should Be
Could Sleeping in Separate Beds Improve Your Relationship?
The Conquering Father Who Made an Empire-Building Son
How Moral Grandstanding Is Ruining Our Public Discourse
What a Man With 60,000 Books Can Teach You About Lifelong Learning and Building Your Home Library
Tips From a Top TED Talker on How to Be Heard
Create your
podcast in
minutes
It is Free
The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast