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Richard KundPrussian military man and traveler, explorer of Africa.
Date of Birth: 01.01.1852
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Content:
- Early Life and Career
- Expedition to the Congo
- Service in Cameroon
- Establishment of German Stations
- Later Life and Legacy
Early Life and Career
Richard Kurt Johann (19 June 1852), a Prussian military officer and traveler, was born in Cilienczig. His passion for exploration led him to embark on expeditions to Africa.
Expedition to the Congo
In 1884, commissioned by the African Society, Kund embarked on an expedition from Leopoldville to the Kwango River. He ventured to Ikatte (Lukenie or Mfimi), exploring its upper reaches and reaching 21°30' E and 3°20' S. However, he suffered injuries from an encounter with natives, forcing him to return in January 1886.
Service in Cameroon
Under the patronage of the German government, Kund traveled to Cameroon in 1887. His mission was to explore, subjugate, and open the southern part of the colony to German trade. Traveling along the Nyong River, he encountered territories influenced by the Adamawa sultanate. He discovered the middle course of the Sanaga River and a waterfall named after Nachtigal.
Establishment of German Stations
Kund founded a station on the Sanaga in 1888 and another in Jaunde in 1889, establishing German presence in Cameroon. He continued to explore the region, contributing to Germany's colonial expansion.
Later Life and Legacy
Richard Kurt Johann died on July 31, 1904, in Sellin on the island of Rügen. His explorations played a significant role in expanding European knowledge of Africa and shaping the colonial landscape.
