Alexander Gordon Laing reaches Timbuktu and is murdered (1826)

Major Alexander Gordon Laing, a Scottish explorer, became the first European to reach Timbuktu in August 1826. He arrived via a north-to-south route and faced hostility from the local ruler. Laing was murdered shortly after his arrival, with his death occurring on 26 September 1826, five weeks after he departed the city.

Episodes

Background and detail

Background. Laing was educated by his father and at the University of Edinburgh. In 1824, he received a local rank of major in Africa. Henry, 3rd Earl Bathurst, instructed him to journey via Tripoli and Timbuktu to elucidate the hydrography of the Niger basin. Laing left England in February 1825, married in Tripoli, and traveled through Ghadames and In Salah before heading to Timbuktu.

Arrival at Timbuktu. Laing left Tuat on 10 January 1826, crossing the desert of Tanezrouft. He arrived in Timbuktu on 18 August 1826, as stated in a letter dated 21 September. His position was insecure due to the hostility of the Fula chieftain Bello, who ruled the city. Timbuktu is an ancient city in Mali, situated north of the Niger River.

Aftermath. Laing was killed five weeks after departing Timbuktu, on 26 September 1826. His papers were never recovered. His father-in-law accused the French of interference, but no evidence supports this. René Caillié reached Timbuktu two years later and claimed a prize for returning alive.

People involved

Sources

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