The Life of Charles Ledger (1818-1905) Alpacas and Quinine by Gabriele Gramiccia

Book Description

Secondhand. Near fine condition.

This is the first comprehensive study of the life and works of Charles Ledger.

Ledger's great contribution to the world was the identification and cultivation of the 'best' unhybridized cinchona seed, from which 90% of the world's quinine was eventually produced. But Charles Ledger didn't only 'give' the world quinine, he led an adventurous life: perhaps his greatest feat being an epic drive of alpacas.

He travelled 2500 km from Peru and Bolivia through Argentina and across the Andes to Peru, and then sailed to New South Wales in an attempt to establish an alpaca wool industry there - the journey took six years.

He died unrecognised by the scientific community and poor. (book flap)