Abstract
EVERY one who has any reason to be interested in Paraguay ought to read this book, which is in most respects a model of what such a work ought to be. The author spent two years in the country, so that he had ample opportunities for making himself acquainted with its leading characteristics. His impressions, upon the whole, were very favourable; but there is not the faintest attempt to convey an exaggerated idea either of Paraguay's resources or of the use she is making of them. M. de Bourgade writes in a spirit of scientific impartiality, bringing out the facts exactly in accordance with what he believes to be the most trustworthy evidence. He begins with an account of the geographical exploration of the country, then presents a geological survey, and describes the basins of the Parana and the Paraguay, and Paraguay's vegetable and animal life and minerals. Next there are chapters on various aspects of social life—government, and laws, financial position, real property, population, and immigration. A section on “Labour” includes chapters on means of communication, the soil, stock-breeding, agricultural products, tobacco, timber, textile plants, various raw materials, yerba-maté, and the orange. On all these subjects the author writes clearly and with full information. The work is enriched with a map and illustrations, and of the translation we need only say that it has been done carefully and adequately.
Paraguay: The Land and the People, Natural Wealth and Commercial Capabilities.
Dr. E. de Bourgade La Dardye. English Edition. Edited by E. G. Ravenstein. (London: George Philip and Son, 1892.)
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Paraguay: The Land and the People, Natural Wealth and Commercial Capabilities. Nature 46, 488 (1892). https://doi.org/10.1038/046488b0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/046488b0