Harry Johnston

Date of Birth: June 12, 1858

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: August 31, 1927

Biography

Harry Hamilton Johnston, commonly known as Sir Harry Johnston, was a British explorer, botanist, artist, and colonial administrator born on June 12, 1858, in Kennington, London, England. Johnston was a prominent figure in the “Scramble for Africa,” a period of rapid colonization of the African continent by European powers. He is best known for his extensive travels and explorations in Africa, where he mapped uncharted territories and documented the flora, fauna, and cultures of the regions he explored. Johnston’s career began with an interest in art and natural sciences, which led him to Africa. His first significant expedition was to the Congo in 1882. Johnston’s work in Africa gained the attention of the British government, and he was appointed to various colonial administrative positions, including Commissioner and Consul-General for British Central Africa (present-day Malawi) and later for Uganda. In addition to his administrative duties, Johnston authored numerous books and scientific papers, contributing significantly to the knowledge of African geography and ethnography. He was knighted in 1896 for his services to the British Empire. Johnston retired from colonial service in 1902 and continued writing and lecturing until his death on August 31, 1927, in Poling, Sussex, England.

5 Interesting Facts about Harry Johnston

1. Sir Harry Johnston was one of the first Europeans to explore the Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the “Mountains of the Moon.”

2. He played a significant role in the establishment of the Uganda Protectorate.

3. Johnston was an accomplished linguist, fluent in several African languages as well as European languages.

4. He discovered and named several species of plants and animals, including Johnston’s chameleon.

5. Johnston’s extensive collection of African artifacts and specimens contributed to the British Museum’s natural history collection.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Harry Johnston

1. “The charm of Africa is that it is still one of the few places on Earth where one can feel like a true explorer.”

2. “Africa’s greatest gift to the world is its unparalleled diversity in culture and nature.”

3. “The exploration of unknown lands is not merely a geographic journey but a profound voyage into the heart of humanity.”

4. “To understand Africa, one must first understand the resilience and spirit of its people.”

5. “In every corner of the continent, one finds a story waiting to be told, a mystery waiting to be unraveled.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Johnston’s highest net worth was estimated to be around £1 million, a considerable sum for his time, derived from his various writings, lectures, and colonial administrative roles.