Historical and Descriptive Narrative of Twenty Years' Residence in South America (Vol 1 of 3) Containing travels in Arauco, Chile, Peru, and Colombia; with an account of the revolution, its rise, progress, and results

"Historical and Descriptive Narrative of Twenty Years' Residence in South America" by William Bennet Stevenson is a firsthand historical retelling of the author's two-decade journey through South America in the early 1800s. The book presents an overview of Stevenson’s travel and experiences into the diverse landscapes and cultures of Arauco, Chile, Peru, and Colombia during a time of revolution. Beginning with his arrival at the Island of Mocha after a long ocean voyage from England, the story offers a glimpse into the lives of native people, describing the environment, previous inhabitants, and the unique characteristics of indigenous tribes like the Araucanians, with details about their appearance, customs, and daily life, showing how they lived and survived. This narrative is a record of both geographical exploration and intimate interaction with societies undergoing immense change.