019 - Hunt for a Government Attack of Fever and Ague

Journey back to 1838, where the lush Honduran forest along the Copán River becomes the backdrop for a remarkable rediscovery of Mayan civilization. Join adventurers John Lloyd Stephens and Frederick Catherwood as they navigate through dense jungles, guided by a machete-wielding local. They encounter awe-inspiring structures resembling pyramids and towering stone columns adorned with intricate hieroglyphics, showcasing artistry rivaling that of the Egyptians. Sent by President Van Buren as a special ambassador, Stephens arrives in Guatemala amidst civil unrest, seeking a legitimate government while evading revolutionary armies. Meanwhile, Catherwood captures the grandeur of Mayan architecture through his exceptional illustrations. “Incidents of Travel in Central America, Chiapas, and Yucatan” became a bestseller of its time, captivating readers with an adventure likened to an “Indiana Jones” saga. (Summary by Sue Anderson)