Books serve as time capsules, capturing history, knowledge, and cultural insights from different periods. One such book, “Travels in the Central Parts of Indo-China (Siam), Cambodia, and Laos: During the Years 1858, 1859, and 1860 – Volume 2” by Henri Mouhot, is a remarkable account of exploration and discovery.
This book provides a firsthand narrative of the author’s travels through the remote and largely unexplored regions of Indo-China (modern-day Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos) during the mid-19th century. It is a significant historical document that brings to life the geography, customs, and cultures of the time.
In this article, we will provide an in-depth look at the product details of this book, its historical significance, availability, and answers to frequently asked questions.
About the Author – Henri Mouhot
Henri Mouhot (1826–1861) was a French naturalist and explorer best known for his journeys through Southeast Asia. His explorations led him to discover and document Angkor Wat, one of the largest and most significant ancient temple complexes in the world.
Although the ruins of Angkor were already known to locals, Mouhot’s descriptions introduced them to the Western world, sparking significant archaeological interest.
His expeditions, unfortunately, ended tragically when he succumbed to a tropical fever in Laos in 1861. However, his journals and writings remain a valuable historical resource, offering insight into a world that was, at the time, largely unknown to the Western world.
Book Details
Basic Product Information
- Title: Travels in the Central Parts of Indo-China (Siam), Cambodia, and Laos: During the Years 1858, 1859, and 1860 – Volume 2
- Author: Henri Mouhot
- Publisher: Legare Street Press
- Publication Date: October 27, 2022
- ISBN-10: 1016005555
- ISBN-13: 9781016005555
- Format: Hardcover
- Language: English
- Page Count: 336 pages
- Dimensions: 23.39 x 15.6 x 1.91 cm
Content Overview
This book is the second volume of Henri Mouhot’s travel records and provides an in-depth look into his exploration of Indo-China, particularly modern-day Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos. It offers a detailed description of the people, geography, wildlife, and cultural aspects of these regions during the mid-19th century.
Key Topics Covered in the Book
- Geographical Insights – A detailed account of the landscapes, mountains, rivers, and forests of Indo-China.
- Flora and Fauna – Documentation of plant and animal species observed during Mouhot’s travels.
- Cultural Observations – Descriptions of the customs, traditions, and everyday lives of various ethnic groups in the region.
- Angkor Wat Discovery – A first-hand account of Angkor Wat, which brought international recognition to the ancient temple complex.
- Exploration Challenges – The dangers and hardships faced by Mouhot during his expeditions, including disease, difficult terrain, and encounters with local tribes.
Mouhot’s writing style is engaging, blending scientific observations with personal experiences, making the book an essential read for history enthusiasts, travelers, and researchers.
Significance of the Book
1. Historical Importance
This book serves as a primary historical source on 19th-century Southeast Asia. It provides insights into pre-colonial societies before they were significantly altered by European influence.
2. Contribution to Archaeology
Mouhot’s documentation of Angkor Wat played a crucial role in its global recognition. His work influenced later archaeological studies and preservation efforts of the temple complex.
3. Scientific Discoveries
His records of plants, animals, and geographical formations contributed to the fields of botany, zoology, and geography.
4. Travel Literature
For those who love adventure and exploration, this book provides a fascinating glimpse into what it was like to travel through uncharted lands in the 19th century.
Where to Buy the Book?
The book is available for purchase from multiple online retailers, including:
- Amazon – Available in hardcover format.
- Walmart – Stocked under its historical travel literature collection.
- Biblio – An independent bookseller offering collectible editions.
- AbeBooks – For used and rare book editions.
- Barnes & Noble – Available for both online and in-store purchase.
For libraries, the book is often available in university collections, especially those focusing on Asian studies, history, and anthropology.
Conclusion
Henri Mouhot’s Travels in the Central Parts of Indo-China is more than just a book—it is a historical document that provides an intimate look into a world that has since changed dramatically.
His meticulous records of the geography, cultures, and wildlife of Southeast Asia make this work invaluable for researchers, historians, and adventure enthusiasts alike.
With its detailed observations and engaging narrative, this book remains an essential read for anyone interested in the rich history of Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who was Henri Mouhot?
Henri Mouhot was a French naturalist and explorer known for his travels in Southeast Asia during the late 1850s and early 1860s. He is best remembered for bringing international attention to Angkor Wat.
2. What is the significance of this book?
The book documents mid-19th century Southeast Asia, detailing its geography, culture, and natural history. It remains an essential historical source for scholars and travelers.
3. What regions does this book cover?
Mouhot’s travels documented in this volume focus on modern-day Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos.
4. Is this book part of a series?
Yes, this book is Volume 2 of a multi-volume series detailing Mouhot’s travels in Indo-China.
5. Where can I buy this book?
The book is available on Amazon, Walmart, Barnes & Noble, Biblio, and AbeBooks.
6. What is the ISBN of this book?
- ISBN-13: 9781016005555
- ISBN-10: 1016005555
7. How many pages does the book have?
The book contains 336 pages in total.
8. What is the format of the book?
This edition is available in hardcover format.
9. What language is the book written in?
The book is written in English.
10. Why is Henri Mouhot’s discovery of Angkor Wat important?
Although locals already knew of Angkor Wat, Mouhot’s detailed descriptions and sketches introduced it to the Western world, leading to international archaeological interest.
