Friday 18th August 2023
Difficulty: Very easy
Sir Richard Burton, explorer (Quiz #273)
Sir Richard Burton. Photo: Rischgitz (Public domain)
Sir Richard Burton (1821-1890) was a British explorer, writer, orientalist scholar, and soldier, known for his travels and explorations in Asia, Africa, and the Americas, as well as his wide knowledge of languages and cultures.
1. During the Somaliland Expedition (29 October 1854 to 9 February 1855), Burton's camp was attacked, and he had to make his escape while still transfixed by a javelin that had impaled him. Where on his body had it gone through?
2. During the expedition to the African Great Lakes (1856–1860), Burton and fellow explorer John Speke were the first Europeans to reach Lake Tanganyika. Burton was awestruck by the sight of the magnificent lake, but why was Speke not so affected?
3. Burton entered the diplomatic service and was posted to Damascus in 1868. When he was recalled in 1871, to whom did he send a telegram saying "I am recalled. Pay, pack, and follow at convenience."?
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