Peru as It Is (Vol. 1&2) (eBook)

Archibald Smith (19th Century) was a well-traveled British author, renowned for his comprehensive two-volume work, 'Peru as It Is,' which presents an in-depth look at the Peruvian society, its culture, and its geographic diversity during the 19th century. Smith embarked on extensive travels through Peru, documenting his observations with an anthropological lens, focusing on the lifestyle of its inhabitants, the economic conditions, and the perplexing political landscape of that era. His work is distinguished by its descriptive nature and its scholarly attention to the minutiae of Peruvian life, offering readers a vivid portrayal of the country during a transformative period in its history. While 'Peru as It Is' remains his most influential contribution to travel literature and cultural anthropology, little is widely known about Smith's personal life or other literary endeavors. Nevertheless, his work is esteemed for its meticulous detail and is often referenced in discussions about Peruvian history and 19th-century travel narratives. Archibald Smith's literary style is reflective of the Victorian inclination towards empirical observation and provides a valuable historical resource for understanding Peru's past societal structures and daily life.