BIOKO,FERNANDO-PO, SouthWest African Islands

1890s HISTORICAL MAP CHART

Bioko (spelled also Bioco) is an island off the west coast of Africa in the Gulf of Guinea, formerly called Fernando Pó or Fernando Póo. It is part of Equatorial Guinea. Bioko has a total area of 2,017 kilometers. It is 70 km long from N.N.E. to S.S.W. and about 32 km across. It is volcanic and very mountanous, and in this way resembles neighboring islands such as São Tomé and Príncipe. The first European discovery of the island was made, probably in 1472, by the Portuguese navigator Fernão do Pó. It was at first named Formosa ('Beautiful'), but in 1494 was renamed for its discoverer (Fernando Pó or Fernando Póo). Unlike other islands in the area, Bioko had an indigenous (African) population. Presently still a distinct ethnic group on the island, these indigenous people, the Bubi, speak a Bantu language; the island was likely inhabited by this or other Bantu-speaking groups since before the 7th century BCE. Portugal ceded to Spain Fernando Póo, Annobón and the Guinea coast (modern Equatorial Guinea) in 1778, with the Treaty of El Pardo, signed between Queen Maria II of Portugal and King Charles III of Spain, in exchange for territory in the American continent. Spain then mounted an expedition to Fernando Póo, led by the Conde de Argelejos. From 1827 to 1843 the British leased bases at Port Clarence (modern Malabo) and San Carlos for the anti-slavery patrols.

1890s Wood Engraving Antique Map

Approximate Overall Size: 7 X 10 1/2 inches

CONDITION: Book Plate INTEXT MAP - Excellent Condition. Beautiful with excellent detail. There is Text on Front and Back Side.