Retrospect of Western Travel, Volume 2 (of 2)

"Retrospect of Western Travel, Volume 2 (of 2)" by Harriet Martineau is a captivating travelogue from the 1800s, that follows the author's adventures across the American West, sharing insights about the diverse people, stunning scenery, and important social issues she finds. It blends Martineau's personal journey with a close examination of the era's cultural and political atmosphere. The story starts with Martineau boarding the steamboat "Henry Clay" to travel the Mississippi River. Setting off from New Orleans, she introduces intriguing characters among her fellow travelers, as well as anxieties surrounding river travel safety at that time. Martineau’s lively descriptions bring to life not only the beauty of the South but also more somber truths along the river, raising questions about mortality and sickness, highlighted by reports of cholera outbreaks in the area. This start signals an exploration of both the physical act of traveling and Martineau's broader observations about society.