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Samuel Baker, explorer, and King Rionga
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Samuel Baker, explorer, and King Rionga
Sir Samuel White Baker (1821-1893), British explorer, exchanging blood with Rionga, an African king, as part of a negotiation. Date: 1869
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Media ID 14230351
© The Sharp Illustration Collection / Mary Evans Picture Library
1869 Africans Baker Biting Blood Brother Brothers Custom Exchange Exchanging Explorer Heroes Negotiation Pith Samuel Tradition Traditions 1860s
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This evocative image captures a pivotal moment in the exploration and colonial history of Africa during the Victorian era. Sir Samuel White Baker (1821-1893), a renowned British explorer, is depicted in the photograph exchanging the blood of his arm with that of King Rionga, an African monarch, as part of a complex negotiation in 1869. The custom of blood-brotherhood was a significant traditional practice in many African cultures, symbolizing a deep bond of friendship and alliance between two parties. Baker, wearing his distinctive pith helmet, stands confidently, his arm extended towards the African king, who also wears a crown and holds a staff of authority. The king, with a serious expression, bites Baker's arm to draw blood, while Baker's brother, Edward Baker, looks on. This powerful image encapsulates the intricate dynamics of diplomacy and cultural exchange during the late 19th century. Samuel Baker was a celebrated figure in British society, having previously discovered the source of the Nile River in 1858. His explorations and expeditions played a significant role in expanding the British Empire in Africa. The photograph serves as a testament to the complexities of colonial encounters, where power, tradition, and diplomacy intersected in intriguing ways. This historical image offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, providing valuable insights into the people, customs, and traditions that shaped the colonial era in Africa. The photograph is a poignant reminder of the intricate web of relationships that existed between European explorers and African leaders during this period.
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