George Fleming (explorer) facts for kids
George Fleming was an amazing African-American explorer and trader who lived in the 1800s. He used to be a slave, but he became a key partner with the famous explorer David Livingstone. Together, they explored parts of northern Botswana and central Africa.
Early Adventures
In 1849, George Fleming joined a big expedition. He worked as a cook, but he was much more than that! This trip, led by David Livingstone and others like William Oswell, Mungo Murray, and Hubert Wilson, aimed to find Lake Ngami.
Two years later, in 1851, Fleming traveled again with Livingstone and Oswell. This time, they journeyed to meet the BaKololo people.
Becoming a Trader
George Fleming was also a smart businessman. With financial help from Howson Rutherford, he started his own trading business deep inside Africa. This showed his courage and skill, as he ventured into new areas to trade goods.
Exploring the Zambezi and Victoria Falls
In 1853, Fleming and Livingstone explored the mighty Zambezi River. This river is one of Africa's longest and most important. After they went their separate ways, Fleming might have been the very first explorer to see the incredible Victoria Falls! Imagine seeing that powerful waterfall for the first time.
Later Life
Years later, in 1856, Fleming helped Livingstone again. He carried important supplies from the London Missionary Society all the way to Livingstone in Quelimane, a place in Mozambique.
After this, George Fleming's story becomes a bit of a mystery. He disappears from historical records. However, it is believed that he was living at the Cape in South Africa during the 1870s. George Fleming's journeys show his incredible bravery and his important role in exploring Africa.
