David Livingstone, a Scottish missionary, doctor, and explorer, is renowned for his extensive explorations of Africa. As one of the most beloved national heroes of 19th century Victorian Britain, he played a significant role in shaping the Western perception of Africa. Livingstone’s remarkable achievements include the discovery of notable water bodies like the Zambezi River and Victoria Falls. Witnessing the horrors of slavery, he dedicated himself to eradicating the African slave trade through the principles of ‘Christianity, Commerce, and Civilization’. Livingstone’s journey from poverty to prosperity, coupled with his missionary work and subsequent recognition as a posthumous national hero, led to the establishment of numerous Christian missionary initiatives and activities in central Africa.
Quick Facts
- Died At Age: 60
- Family:
- Spouse/Ex-: Mary Moffat
- Father: Neil
- Siblings: Charles Livingstone
- Children: Agnes, Elizabeth, Robert, Thomas, William Oswell, and Anna Mary
- Born Country: Scotland
- Explorers
- Scottish Men
- Died on: May 1, 1873
- Place of death: Chipundu, Zambia
- Cause of Death: Malaria
- More Facts:
- Education: University Of Glasgow
Childhood & Early Life
David Livingstone was born on March 19, 1813 in Blantyre, Scotland. He grew up in a dwelling building for cotton factory workers, as the second child of Neil Livingstone and Agnes. Like other children in the mill, he attended the Blantyre village school. At the age of 10, he started working in a cotton mill, but with the support of his family, he managed to continue his studies. While his father wanted him to study theology, David’s passion for science led him to study medicine. He enrolled at Anderson’s College and later studied Greek and theology at the University of Glasgow. He also joined the London Missionary Society and continued his medical studies.
Career
David’s passion for going to China was curbed by the Opium Wars, but his acquaintance with Scottish missionary Robert Moffat ignited his passion for exploring Africa. In 1840, he set sail for South Africa and started working at the edge of the Kalahari Desert. He embarked on several expeditions, exploring the Kalahari, Lake Ngami, and the Zambezi River. In 1855, he discovered the famous Victoria Falls and became the first European to cross Southern Africa. His explorations helped unveil several facts about the African continent and facilitated trade and missionary work. He published his work as “Missionary Travels and Researches in South Africa” in 1857.
Awards & Achievements
David Livingstone was honored with a gold medal by the British Royal Geographical Society for his exploration of Lake Ngami. He was also made a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society. Various schools, hospitals, and institutes in Africa have been named after him, and statues have been erected in his honor around the world. His image was displayed on £10 notes issued by the Clydesdale Bank.
Personal Life & Legacy
David married Mary Moffat, the daughter of Robert Moffat, in 1845. They had six children together. Mary, who was also a missionary, suffered from ill health and passed away in 1862. David’s last years were marked by severe illness and he regretted not spending enough time with his family. He passed away at the age of 63 in 1873 from malaria and dysentery. His heart was buried under a Mvula tree in Zambia, while the rest of his remains were brought back to Britain for burial.