Barreiro, P. Agustín Jesús.- ACCOUNT OF THE TRIP OF MARCELINO ANDRÉS ALONG THE COASTS OF AFRICA, CUBA AND THE ISLAND OF SAINT HELENA (1830-1832)

National Geographic Society, Madrid, 1933. Publications of the Society, Series B. No. 19. Printing Office of the Intendancy and Military Interventions. Cover, 186 pages. Elegant half-leather binding, preserving the original covers, somewhat faded.
"While the 15th century marks the beginning of the European presence in Africa and the great modern discoveries took place in the 17th and 18th centuries, Africa was not a significant focus of interest or exploitation because it was considered merely a transit point on the route to India or a destination for the personal ambitions of the most daring. Well into the 19th century, the Black continent, full of geographical and anthropological mysteries, remained largely unexplored, little known, neglected, and completely forgotten by Europeans. It was in these decades that the demand for African trade, civilization, and evangelization began. One of the consequences of the creation of European Geographical Societies, which emerged in this century, was to push European colonialism into the interior of Africa. Furthermore, however valuable the results achieved with these expeditions may be—expected after Andrés had already died, which makes their merit all the greater—they can be considered an initial period. The systematic explorations of Africa by the Spanish began in the north of the continent and continued, decades later, in West Africa. For these reasons..." At that time, Spanish interests continued to be driven by American ambition, and in this respect, the convenience of the colonies would come very late. (Rafael Monferrer)