The itinerary of Alfred Russel Wallace's Amazonian journey (1848–1852): A source for researchers and readers

Abstract

This research report offers the most complete itinerary of Alfred Russel Wallace's scientific explorations of the Brazilian Amazon between 1848 and 1852. As a source for historians of science and natural scientists, it may become a reference to track the zoological and botanical species collected alongside the described landscapes and people in Wallace's complex road map of explorations. Evidencing many relations and interests intertwined with the construction of Wallace's itinerary, this report makes room for the elaboration of a more accurate picture of his expedition. Tracking the development of Wallace's insights along his journey, this itinerary also allows us to ascertain which species, regions, and phenomena fostered the conceptual roots of his later theory of evolution by natural selection.