Sir Richard Francis Burton: A Life

Introduction

Sir Richard Francis Burton was a British explorer, translator, writer, soldier, diplomat, and orientalist who is best known for his travels and explorations in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. He was the first European to visit the holy city of Mecca and the first to translate the Arabian Nights into English. Burton was a prolific writer and published over 40 books and numerous articles. He was also a skilled linguist and spoke over 25 languages.

Early Life and Education

Richard Francis Burton was born on March 19, 1821, in Torquay, Devon, England. His father, Joseph Netterville Burton, was an Irish army officer, and his mother, Martha Baker, was the daughter of a wealthy landowner. Burton was educated at home until the age of 15, when he was sent to school in France. He later attended Oxford University, where he studied Arabic, Persian, and Hindustani.

Military Career

After graduating from Oxford, Burton joined the British Army and served in India. He saw action in the First Anglo-Afghan War and was awarded the Order of the Bath for his bravery. Burton also served in the Crimean War and was present at the Battle of Balaclava.

Exploration and Travel

Burton is best known for his travels and explorations in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. He made several journeys to Mecca and Medina, disguised as a Muslim pilgrim. He also traveled to India, Egypt, Sudan, Somalia, and Ethiopia. In 1856, Burton and John Hanning Speke became the first Europeans to reach Lake Tanganyika in central Africa.

Literary Works

Burton was a prolific writer and published over 40 books and numerous articles. His most famous work is The Arabian Nights, which he translated into English from the original Arabic. Burton also wrote several books about his travels and explorations, including A Pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina, The Lake Regions of Central Africa, and The Nile Basin.

Linguistic Skills

Burton was a skilled linguist and spoke over 25 languages. He was fluent in Arabic, Persian, Hindustani, and Turkish. Burton also spoke several African and European languages.

Personal Life

Burton was married twice. His first wife, Isabel Arundell, died in 1869. He later married Isabel Burton, who was a writer and explorer in her own right. Burton had no children.

Death and Legacy

Burton died on October 20, 1890, in Trieste, Italy. He was 69 years old. Burton is considered one of the greatest explorers and adventurers of all time. He was a man of many talents and accomplishments, and his legacy continues to inspire people around the world.

Conclusion

Sir Richard Francis Burton was a remarkable man who lived a life of adventure and exploration. He was a gifted linguist, a skilled writer, and a brave soldier. Burton's travels and explorations have left a lasting legacy, and he is still considered one of the greatest explorers of all time. If you are interested in learning more about Burton, I highly recommend reading his biography, Sir Richard Francis Burton: A Life, by Edward Rice.