David Livingstone Discovers Victoria Falls

November 16th, 1855

November 16th, 1855

David Livingstone Discovers Victoria Falls
How Long Ago?

169 years, 3 months, 27 days ago

Location

Victoria Falls, Zambia-Zimbabwe

Category

Exploration & Discovery

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  • David Livingstone
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David Livingstone Discovers Victoria Falls

David Livingstone became the first European to see the breathtaking Victoria Falls, known by the locals as Mosi-oa-Tunya, in present-day Zambia and Zimbabwe. He first glimpsed the falls while exploring the Zambezi River, driven by his desire to find a route to the interior of Africa. Livingstone described the falls as one of the most beautiful spectacles he had ever witnessed, marveling at the immense volume of water that cascaded down the cliffs. His encounter with this natural wonder marked a significant moment in the exploration of Africa.

Livingstone named the falls after Queen Victoria.

The local name for the falls is Mosi-oa-Tunya.

His journey focused on ending the slave trade.

The discovery led to increased European interest in Africa.

What Happened?

In 1855, Scottish missionary and explorer David Livingstone achieved a monumental milestone in his travels through southern Africa by becoming the first European to see Victoria Falls, one of the most spectacular natural wonders of the world. Livingstone had journeyed deep into Africa in search of a navigable route along the Zambezi River, with hopes of linking central Africa to the ocean and facilitating trade. His exploration aimed not only to discover geographical landmarks but also to spread Christianity and combat the slave trade. Upon reaching the falls, which are situated on the border between what is now Zambia and Zimbabwe, Livingstone was overwhelmed by their majesty. He named it Victoria Falls in honor of Queen Victoria, although the indigenous Kololo people called it Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning 'the smoke that thunders.' Livingstone carefully documented his findings in letters and journals, ensuring that the grandeur and scale of the falls were recorded for future explorers and adventurers. His discovery ignited European interest in the interior of Africa and bolstered the notion of African exploration among various nations in the 19th century.

Why Does it Matter?

The discovery of Victoria Falls by David Livingstone was significant in the context of European exploration and colonization of Africa. It highlighted the complexity and beauty of the African landscape, encouraging further expeditions and ultimately leading to increased European settlement in the region. The fascination captured by Livingstone's accounts helped shift perceptions of Africa from a 'dark continent' to one filled with wonder and potential, thereby influencing subsequent exploration and exploitation of its resources.

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