Reize Naar Surinamen En Door De Binnenste Gedeelten Van Guiana — Compleet

A historical account written in the late 18th century. The work chronicles Stedman’s detailed observations and experiences during his military expedition to Suriname, focusing on the challenges faced during the suppression of slave uprisings and offering insights into the life and environment of Guiana. The beginning of this narrative introduces Stedman's motivations for undertaking the journey, detailing the historical context of slave revolts in Suriname and the Dutch colonial system. He describes the preparations for the expedition, the experiences of the troops on their sea voyage, and their arrival at Fort Amsterdam in Suriname. As they reach the lush, dangerous land, Stedman notes the stark contrast between the beauty and brutality he encounters, particularly highlighting the harsh treatment of slaves, which profoundly affects him. The opening sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of the interplay between colonization, slavery, and the natural world in a region that was both a site of wealth for European powers and suffering for its enslaved population.