iEx Htbrte SEYMOUR DURST -I ' 'Fort nUwv ^m^erJam- oj^ Je Mtrnliatans "When you leave, please leave this hook 'Because it has heen said "Ever'thing comes t' him who waits fxcept a loaned hook." X .viA;^.\ ^A.'VI^V ^j^n'vS V RK V 1 S E I> E 1) 1 r 1 O N. MITCHELL'S PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. AN EASY INTRODUCTION > TO THE STUDY OF GEOGRAPHY: DESIGNED FOR THE INSTRUCTION OF CHILDREN IN SCHOOLS AND FAMILIES. ILIiOSTRATKD BY OWE HUNDRED AND TWENTY ENGRAVINGS AND FOURTEEN ZVIAPS. BY S. AUGUSTUS MITCHELL. PHILADELPHIA: THOMAS, COWPERTHWAIT & CO 1 8 4 7.' ADVERTISEMENT. The present edition of Mitchell's Primary Geograpny is printed from an entire new set of stereotype plates. The liberal patronage bestowed on the work since its first publication, near five years ago, has enabled the publishers to dispose of so many copies as to render it incumbent on them to renew the plates, so that the printing and general appearance may not deteriorate from the standard of excel- lence by which it has secured the favourable opinion of parents and teachers. This circumstance has given the Author an opportunity to make such revisions as the political and geographical changes that have occurred in the interim, in various parts of the earth, have ren- dered necessary ; of these the annexation of Texas, the union of the Canadas, and such other emendations as the scope and limits of the work permit, have received due attention. May Ist, 1846. Entered, according to the Act of Congress, in th6 year 1846, BY S. AUGUSTUS MITCHELL, In the clerk's office of the district court of the eastern district of Pennsylvania. PRINTED BY SJVIITH AND PETERS, Franklin Buildings, 6'.li St., bolow Arch. (2) PREFACE. The following work is designed as a first book of Geography, to be used in the instruction of children in Families and Schools, as soon as they can spell and read with facility. The Author has endeavoured to render it simple in arrangement, and easy of comprehension. He has also aimed at making the descriptive matter characteristic and concise ; to embody it in short sentences and paragraphs, and in plain Englisfi, without being trifling or childish. The Primaey Geography forms the commencement of a Series of School Books, which, in connexion with Mitchell's School Geography and Atlas, Geographical Reader, and High School Geography and Atlas, will elucidate the Geography of our own, and the other countries of the earth. The work is divided into eighty-three Lessons, seventy-six of which are devoted to the illustration of Geography, and seven relate to Astronomy. A few of the first Lessons are arranged partly in the method of Question and Answer ; and in these, where the Pupils are required to find the answers, the latter are numbered, to agree with each series of questions respectively. In the first three-fourths of the book, the words of the answers are printed in Italic type ; in the remainder, there is no such distinction, and the pupils are required to ascertain the requisite answers by their own discernment. It will thus be perceived that the plan of the Primary Geography is to lead the learner forward by easy and gradual steps, so as to prepare the youthful mind for an introduction into a more advanced study of this important science. The engravings in the Primary Geography are nearly all from original designs, and have been introduced, more with reference to illustrating re- (3) IV 1 PREFACE. markable events, or circumstances connected with the countries to whica they are attached, than for the purpose of mere ornament. Those representing the Landing of the Pilgrims, William Penn's Treaty with the Indians, and Pocahontas saving the life of Captain Smith, will pro- bably impress the mind of the scholar more forcibly with recollections of New England, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, than any description whatever, and, perhaps, in many cases, will produce a permanent impression. The whole of the designs will be found to be of the same illustrative de- scription, and elucidate, it is believed, in nearly all cases, some characteristic incident or event. The utility of appropriate engravings, associated with descriptive Geography^ now generally admitted ; and their importance in communicating more clear and vivid ideas, requires but little argument. The Primary Geography contains Fourteen Maps ; a greater number than is to be found in any similar book hitherto published. These are made plain and distinct ; are specially adapted to the text, and, in connexion with the lessons attached to them, will be found to add much to the value of the work. The introduction of moral and religious sentiments into books designed for the instruction of young persons, is calculated to improve the heart, and elevate and expand the youthful mind ; accordingly, wherever the subject has admitted of it, such observations have been made as tend to illustrate the excellence of the Christian religion, the advantages of correct moral prin- ciples, and the superiority of enlightened institutions. The Lessons on Astronomy, at the close of this little work, may lead the youthful mind to contemplate the universe, of which our earth is but a part, and thus form an easy introduction to a knowledge of the most sublime and imposing science that can be presented to the Pupil. The lessons are plain and easy. They are made as free as possible from abstruse terms, and con- tain descriptions of a few of the most familiar and striking objects connected with Astronomy. CONTENTS. Waoa fog' J. Of the Cardinal Points 7 2. Oftlie Earth , 8 3. Of the Surface of the Earth 9 4. Of the Water on the Earth 10 5. Of Rivers 11 6. Of the Land 12 7. Divisions of the Land 13 8. Of Mountains, &c 13 9. Shape and Size of the Earth 15 10. Motions of the Earth 16 11. Of Climate, &c 17 12. Productions of the Earth 19 13. Of the People that inhabit the Earth. 21 14. Political Divisions 22 15. Of Maps 24 16. Grand Divisions of the Earth 25 17. Of the Ocean 26 18. Map of the Western Hemisphere, &c. 29 19. Map of the Eastern Hemisphere, &c.. 31 SO. America 32 21. North America 34 22. United States 36 23. United States (continued) 38 24. Map of the United States, &c 41 2.5. Eastern States 42 26. Middle States 44 27. Southern States 47 28. Western States and Territories 49 29. Map of the Eastern States, &c 53 30. Map of the Middle States, &c 55 31. Map of the Southern States, &c 57 32. Map of the Western States, &c 59 33. Greenland, British America, &c CO 34. Mexico and Upper California 62 35. Guatimala and the West Indies 64 36. Map of North America, &c. 67 37. History of America 68 :i8. History of North America 70 39. History of the United States 71 40. History of United States (continued). 74 41. History of United States, &c 76 42. South America 78 43. Map of South America, &c 81 LeMod FaSA 44. New Grenada, Venezuela, &C 83 45. Chili, Buenos Ayres, &c 84 46. History of South America 87 47. Europe 89 48. Map of Europe, &c 93 49. Sweden and Norway, Russia, &c 94 50. Poland, Denmark, Holland, Belgium. 97 51. Great Britain, England, Wales 98 52. Scotland, Ireland, &c 101 53. Spain, Portugal, and Germany 104 54. Switzerland and Italy 106 55. Ionian Republic, Greece, and Turkey 109 56. Mapof Central and Southern Europe. 113 57. History of Europe 114 58. Asia 110 59. Asiatic Russia, Turkey, and Syria. . . 118 60. Palestine, Arabia, Persia, &c 121 61. Tartary, India, and Hindoostan 123 62. Birmah, &c., China, and Japan 126 63. Map of Asia, &c 129 64. History of Asia 130 65. History of Asia, &c. (continued) 132 66. Africa, Barbary, and Egypt 134 67. Nubia, Senegambia, and Guinea 137 68. Southern Africa, &c 140 69. Map of Africa, &c 143 70. History of Africa 144 71. Oceanica 146 72. Polynesia 149 73. Map of Oceanica, &c 153 74. Progress of Society 154 75. Government 157 76. Religion 160 ASTRONOMY. LeMOQ Vast 77. Astronomy 163 78. Solar System 164 79. Of the Moon 166 80. Planets 168 81. The Planets 169 82. The Planets and Comets 171 83. Fixed Stars, &c 175 (5) ADDRESS TO THE PUPIL. My young Friend: — By studying this little book with attention, you will learn many things that will please and instruct you ; you will read about the coun- try we live in, and what grows in it, how it is divided, and what rivers and mountains it contains. You will also learn a great deal about other coun- tries, and the people that live in them: you will be taught where tea, cofiee, and sugar come from, and what parts of the earth furnish us with oranges, pine-apples, figs, almonds, and raisins. An account of these things is called Geography, a word which signifies a description of the surface of the earth. This kind of knowledge is so necessary, that those who are not acquainted with it are reckoned very ignorant. Little boys and girls, although they may never have been away from home, can, by reading this and other books of the same kind that the Author has published for their instruction, tell about the people, the animals, the mountains and rivers of all the countries in the world. Many young persons are well acquainted with Geo- graphy ; they obtain, in consequence, the respect and esteem of those who are older than themselves, and are at the same time regarded with pleasure and satisfaction by their parents and friends. (6) PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. LESSON 1. OF THE CARDINAL POINTS. In studying Geography, the first thing you must learn is, which way ^ North, South, East and West lie : These are called the Cardinal, or principal points of the compass. NORTH SOUTH The sun rises the East, and sets ^in the West. Now if you stretch your arms straight out from your body, and point with your right hand to the East, the West will be * on your left hand, the North will be ^ before you, and the South ^ behind you. These things you must try and understand well; for unless you are acquainted with the Cardinal points, 0) 8 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. you will not be able to tell in what direction different countries lie from each other. Now answer the following Questions ; you will find them easy, as the words which form the answers are printed in a different type, and numbered to correspond with the questions. Q,. 1. Which are the cardinal, or principal points of the compass'! Q. 2. Where does the sun rise 1 Q,. 3. Where does the sun set 1 Q,, 4. If you point with your right hand to the east, where will the west be 1 €L 5. Where will the north be 1 QL. 6. Where will the south be 1 LESSON 2. OP THE EARTH. Question. What do mankind inhabit t Answer. The surface of the earth. Q,. What does the earth form 'i A. A part of the universe. Q,. Of what does the universe consist! A, The heavens and the earth. Q,. What do the heavens comprise 1 A. The vast space around the earth, which contains the sun, moon, and stars. Q,. Who made the universe 1 A. God, the Creator of all things. OF THE SURFACE OF THE EARTH. 9 "In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth." — Gen. i. 1. Q.. By what other names is the earth called 1 A. The World, and the Globe. LESSON 3. OF THE SURFACE OP THE EARTH. Q,. What is the earth 1 A. One of the planets. Q,. Of what does the surface of the earth consist 1 A. Land and water. 0,. How much of the earth's surface consists of land 1 A. A quarter, or one-fourth part. 0,. How much more water than land is there 1 A. Three times more water than land. d. What is the chief part of the water on the earth called 1 A. The sea, or ocean. For the purpose of being more easily understood, different parts of the water are called by different names, as you will learn in the next lesson. Q,. Are the waters of the sea salt or fresh 1 A. They are salt. Q,. What part of the waters on the earth are fresh 1 A. Lakes and rivers have generally fresh water. There are a few lakes and rivers whose waters are salt. LESSON 4. OP THE WATER ON THE EARTH. Q,. What are constantly sailing on the sea ? A. Ships, steamboats, and other kinds of vessels. Ships, &c., are used for carrying people and merchandise from one country to another. Many vessels and fishermen are employed on the sea in killing the great whales, and catching the fishes of different kinds that swim in its waters. Q,. By what names are diflTerent portions of the water on the earth called? A. Oceans, Seas, Bays, Gulfs, and Straits. €1. What is an Ocean 1 A. The largest extent of water. Q,. What is a Sea 1 A, An extent of water smaller than an ocean. OF THE WATER ON THE EARTH. 11 Q,, What are Bays and Gulfs'? A. They are portions of the sea which extend into the land. a. What is a strait? A. A narrow passage, which connects two large bodies of water. d. What is a Lake 1 A. A body of water almost entirely surrounded b} hu''. LESSON 5. OF RIVERS. Q,. What is a River 1 A. A large stream of water. Rivers usually flow from Springs, that rise among hills and moun tains. Their branches are called Brooks, and Creeks. The branche. of rivers are sometimes so large that they are also called rivers. The Map above will show the source or head spring of a river, and how rivulets, brooks, creeks, and other branches, flow into rivers. Q,. From what do rivers usually flow ? Q,. What are the various branches of rivers called? (i. What is said of the largest branches of some rivers ? Q,. Into what do rivers generally flow, or empty their waters 1 A. Into the sea, but some rivers flow into lakes. PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. Q, How are rivers useful 1 A. They water and fertilize the earth. Many steamboats and other vessels navigate rivers, and also lakes . they are used, as on the sea, in conveying travellers and produce to and from one city or country to another. Q,. How is the vast body of water on the earth restrained from overflowing the land 1 A. By the power of the Almighty, who, in the begin- ning, separated the land from the water. " And God said, Let the waters under the heaven be gathered to- gether into one place, and let the dry land appear : and it was so."- - Gen. i. 9. LESSON 6. OP THE LAND. Q,. How is the land on the surface of the earth diversified 1 A. By mountains and valleys, hills and plains. 0,. How is the land on the earth divided? A. Into Continents, Peninsulas, Isthmuses, and Islands. (i, Whfit is a Continent ] A. The largest extent of land. Q,. How many Continents are there 1 A. Two, the Eastern and Western. Q,. What does the Eastern Continent contain ? A. Europe, Asia, and Africa. Q„ What does the Western Continent contain 1 A. North America and South America. OF MOUNTAINS, &c. 13 LESSON 7. DIVISIONS OF THE LAND. Q,. What is the Eastern Continent often called 1 A. The Old World. 0,. What is the Western Continent often called T A. The New World. The Western Continent is called the New World, because it has net been so long known as the Eastern Continent. Q,. What is a Peninsula 1 A. A tract of land nearly surrounded by water. Q,. W^at is an Isthmus 1 A. A narrow tract of land which joins a Peninsula to a Continent. Q,. What is an Island 1 A. A tract of land entirely surrounded by water. Q„ What is an Archipelago 1 A. A sea containing many islands. 0,. What is a Cape 1 A. A point of land extending into the sea. LESSON 8. OP MOUNTAINS, &c. Qi. What is a Mountain? A. A tract of land raised up to a great height. Some mountains are a hundred times higher than the highest 1 mse you ever saw, and their summits covered \nth ice and snow. 14 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. Mountains, Hills, Volcano, Plains, Valley. Q. What is a Volcano ? A. A burning mountain. Volcanoes send forth fire and smoke, and also lava, or melted stones, from an opening at the top called a Cmter. Cities and towns are sometimes set on fire and destroyed, by the burning lava, a WhatisaHiin A. A portion of land raised up, but not so high as a mountain. Q. What is a Valley ? A. A low portion of land, situated between hills or mountains. QL What is a Plain ? A. A level tract of land. Some plains are fertile and well cultivated ; some are covered with grass ; others are covered with sand, and are barren. Q,. What is a Desert ? A. A plain covered with sand. The largest desert in the world is in Africa ; it is called the Sahara, or the Great Desert. SHAPE AND SIZE OF THE EARTH. 15 A Picture of one side of the Earth. LESSON 9. SHAPE AND SIZE OF THE EARTH. You must no\y learn something about the shape and size of the earth, and how it moves. By the picture you perceive that ' it is round, like a ball or an orange. ^ America is on one side, and ^ Eu- rope, Asia and Africa are on the ottier side. Q,. 1. What is the shape of the Earth T Q,. 2. What is said of America 1 Q,. 3. What is said of Europe, &c. ? 16 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. Q,. What is the circumference of the earth 1 A. About twenty-five thousand miles. Q, What is the diameter of the earth 1 A. Almost eight thousand miles. «tnf er« The engraving will show you that the circum- ference of a body is around the outside, and the diameter is a line across the centre, or middle part. The extent around the earth is so great, that if a bird were to fly at the rate of a mile in a minute, it would take about seventeen days and nights for the bird to come round to the place from which it started. * The earth is all the time turning round and round ; it never stops, but rolls like an immense ball through the heavens, surrounded on everj side ^ by the sky and stars Q,. 4. Wliat is said of the earth ? Q. 5. By what is the earth surrounded on every side 1 LESSON 10. MOTIONS OF THE EARTH. ^ Q. How many motions has the earth, and what are they 1 A. Two ; the daily and the yearly. Q,. What is the daily motion of the earth 1 A. That by which it turns round once every^c^ay. QL. What is the yearly motion of the earth A. That by which it moves round the sun, once every year. Q,. What is produced by the daily motion of the earth 7 A. Day and night. OF THE CLIMATE, &c. 17 Q,. What is produced by the yearly motion of the earth 1 A. A change of seasons. Q,. What is a change of seasons 1 A. The change from winter to spring, from spring to summer, from summer to autumn, and from autumn to winter again. In winter the earth is covered with ice and snow. Spring is the time when the flowers are in blossom. Summer is the warm season of the year. In autumn, or fall, the flowers and plants decay, and the leaves drop from the trees. LESSON 11. OF CLIMATE, &c. In some parts of the earth the climate, or weather, is veiy warm ; in some it is extremely cold, and the ground is all the time covered with ice and snow. In other parts the weather is mild and pleasant. The warmest regions of the earth are ^ near the Equa- tor. The coldest regions are ^ near the Poles. The most pleasant, or temperate regions, are ^within the temperate Zones. Q,. 1. Where are the warmest regions of the earth 1 Q,. 2. Where are the coldest regions of the earth 1 Q,. 3. Where are the most pleasant, or temperate regions ? On the Map of the World you will learn where the warm, the cold, and the temperate regions of the earth, are situated. Among the principal nations of the earth, nearly all the people are employed in ^Agriculture^ Manvfactures, and Commerce. 18 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. The farmer is employed in agriculture, or farming ; he raises ^ wheats corn, and other kinds of food. The manufacturer makes ^ cloth, leather, paper, and many other articles ; nearly every thing that is made, is the work of manufacturers or mechanics. In commerce, or trade, the productions of one coun- try are exchanged for those of another. Our merchants send their ships laden with cotton, flour, fish, dec, and exchange these articles with the people of other parts of the world, for coffee, sugar, tea, pepper, &c. Q,. 4. In what are nearly all the people employed ? Q,. 5. What does the farmer raise ? Q. 6. What does the manufacturer make 1 Q, 7. What is done in commerce, or trade 1 Here is a picture of a ship coming from a distant country, probably from China, and laden with tea ; or from South America, with coffee ; or pei'haps she is from Spain, and brings oranges, raisins, and almonds. You must remember what is said of Agriculture, Manufactures, and connnerce, tor they arc often spoken of. PRODUCTIONS OF THE EARTH. 19 LESSON 12. PRODUCTIONS OF THE EARTH. The earth is inhabited by many millions of human beings, and also by a vast number of animals of differ- ent kinds, comprising Beasts, liirds, Fishes, Reptiles and Insects. The Vegetable and Mineral productions are likewise various and important. Q,. What are "Vegetable productions 1 \ A. Flowers, fruit, wheat, corn, coffee, tea, and other articles, that grow out of the earth. A Flower. Fruit. Wiieat. d. What are Mineral productions 1 A. The various kinds of stones, with lime, coal, gold, silver, iron, lead, and many other things, that are dug out of the ground. Gold and silver are called the precious metals, because they are the most valuable: nearly all our money is made of gold and silver. 20 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. Q,. Which are some of the principal Beasts? A. The Elephant, Lion, Tiger, Bear, Horse, and Ox, A Beast. A Bird. Horses, Cows, Dogs, and Cats, are met with in nearly all parts of the earth, and are called domestic, or tame animals. The Lion is found only in Africa, the Tiger in Asia, and the Grisly Bear in Ame- l iea. These are wild animals, and are very fierce and danger- ous. Q,. Mention some of the principal Birds. A. The Ostrich, Eagle, Pelican, Turkey, and commoa Fowl. 0,. Mention some of the principal Fishes. A. The Shark, Swordfish, Salmon, Cod, and Shad. Fishes. d. Mention some of the principal Reptiles. A. Alligators, Lizards, Snakes, Toads, and Frogs, OP THE PEOPLE THAT INHABIT THE EARTH. 21 A Reptile. An Insect. Q,. Mention some of the principal Insects. A. Butterflies, Bees, Spiders, Musquitoes, and Ants. LESSON 13. OP THE PEOPLE THAT INHABIT THE EARTH. Q. From wliom are the people that inhabit tlie earth descended » A. Our first parents, Adam and Eve. Q, In whose image was man created ? A. In the image and after the Hkeness of God. So God created man after his own image. — Gen. i. 27. Q,. How do the various races of men, or nations,^ differ 1 A. Some are white, hke ourselves, and there are others that are yellovr, red, brown, and black. 0,. In what other respects do nations differ from each other T A. In the language they speak, the dress they wear, and in the food they eat. The principal nations of white complexion are the ^ Europeans, and their descendants x the yellow are the 22 PRiaiARY GEOGRAPHY. ' Chinese^ &c. : the red are the ^American Indians : the brown are the ^Malays, and the black are the ^ Negroes. a. 1. Which are the principal nations of white and yellow com- plexion ? Q,. 2. Which are the principal nations of red, brown, and black complexion 1 Native of Java. Ashantce Cliief. Persian Woman. You perceive by the pictures how diiFerently other nations dress from us, and also from one another. The native of Java has the upper part of liis body naked : the Ashantee chief has but little clothing ; while the Persian woman is almost covered up with her dress. LESSON 14. POLITICAL DIVISIONS. The Continents, Oceans, Peninsulas, Islands, &c. that you have been learning about, are called ^ Natural Divisions^ because they were made by the Creator ; but POLITICAL DIVISIONS. 23 Empires, Kingdoms, Republics, &c. are called ^Political Divisions. They were established by men for the pur- poses of government. 0,. 1. What are Continents, Oceans, Peninsulas, &c., called 1 Q,. 2. What are Empires, Kingdoms, Republics, &c., called 1 Q. What is an Empire 1 A. A country governed by an Emperor. Q,. What is a Kingdom 1 A. A country governed by a King. Emperors and Kings are also called Monarchs and Sovereigns. The wife of an Emperor is called an Empress ; the wife of a King is called a Q,ueen. a. What is a Republici A. A country whose Chief Magistrate, or President, is elected by the people. a. What is a Nation 1 A. A distinct body of people, as the English nation, the French nation. Q. What is a City? A. A large collection of houses and inhabitants. a. What are Towns? A. Collections of houses and inhabitants ; generally smaller than cities. When a city is the seat of government of a country, it is called the Capital. When it contains a greater number of inhabitants than any other in the same country, it is called the chief city, or metro- polis. Washington City is the capital of the United States ; but New York contains ten times more inhabitants, and is the metropolis, or chief 24 OF MAPS. LESSON 15. OF MAPS. To understand the true position of the different coun- tries on the globe, it will be necessary to study the Maps attentively. A Map is picture of tJie whole, or a part of the earth'^s surface : it represents ^ the form or shape of Continents, Oceans, Islands, Lakes, &ic., and also shows ^ where Rivers, Mountains, Cities aiid Towns are situated. Q,. 1. What is a Map ] Qi. 2. What does a Map represent 1 Q,. 3. What does a Map show 1 A Map. The top part of a Map is North, the bottom, is South, the right hand ■?ide is East, and the left hand side is West. The map before yon is a picture of the United States, or the coun- GRAND DIVISIONS OF THE EARTH, 25 try we live in. You perceive that Oceans, Lakes, Rivers, Mountains, Boundaries, Cities, and Towns, are shown on it. Now point out on the Map, North — South — East — West. Point out the Oceans — tiie Lakes — the Mountains — the Desert. Point out the Boundaries. The Boundaries are shown by the dotted lines that separate one country from another, as the United States from Mexico. Point out the Capitals — the Cities — the Towns. The lines that cross the map, from one side to the other, are called Lines of Latitude, or Parallels, and show the distances, in degrees, north or south of the Equator. The lines that extend from the top to the bottom of the map are lines of Longitude, or Meridians, and show the distances east or west from a first Meridian. When you come to study other maps, you will see how Islands, Gulfs, Bays, Peninsulas, &c., are represented. Hereafter the Pupil will find the Questions at the bottom of the same pages as the Lessonai to which they are attached. LESSON 16. GRAND DIVISIONS OP THE EARTH. The earth contains five grand divisions. These are, ^America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceanica. America, or the Western Continent, comprises "North America mid South America, It contains nearly a tiiird part of the land on the surface of the globe. ^Europe, Asia and Africa are connected with each other, and form the Eastern Continent. These divisions contain three-fifths of the land surface of the earth. Q,uESTioNs. — 1. What are the grand divisions of the earth 1 2. Wha't does America comprise 1 3. What forms the Eastern conti- 26 fUlMARV GEOGRAtHY. Europe is * the smallest of the grand divisions, yet it contains the most powerful nations. The people of Europe are called ^ Europeans. Asia is ^ the largest grand division, and contains more than one half of the population of the earth. The inhabitants are called ^ Asiatics, Africa is ^ the least known division of the earth. The chief part of the inhabitants are black, and are called ^ Africans, or Negroes. Oceanica consists entirely of islands, situated in the Pacific Ocean. It was the last discovered division of the world, and has the smallest number of inhabitants. LESSON 17. OF THE OCEAN. The water on the surface of the globe comprises ' the Pacific, the Atlantic, the Indian, the Northern and the Southern Oceans. These are all connected with each other, and form one vast sea or ocean. The Eastern and Western Continents are sepa- rated from each other ^ by the Pacific Ocean on the one side, and the Atlantic Ocean on the other. nenf? 4. What is Europe? 5. What are the people called I 6. What is Asia ] 7. What are the inhabitants called ■? 8. What is Africa 1 9. What are the inhabitants called? 10. Of what does Oceanica consist 1 Q,uESTioNs, — L What does the water on the globe comprise'? 2. How are the Eastern and Western Continents separated " OF THE OCEAN. 27 The Indian Ocean flows between '■^ Africa and Aus- tralia. The Northern Ocean occupies tJie most north- erly parts of the earth. The Southern Ocean occupies ° the most southerly parts of the earth. ^ Wliales, seals, turtles^ and other marine animals, with numerous Fishes, are found in the ocean ; a great variety of Plants also grow in its waters, some of which rise from a depth of more than two hundred feet.' A Seal, A Turtle. The ocean is preserved pure by its saltness and constant motion. When ships are tossed by raging tem- pests on its waters, it exhibits one of the most striking- proofs of the weakness of man, and the power of Om- nipotence. By means of the ocean, we are enabled ^ to visit foreign countries. If we wish to see any part of Eu- rope, we can be conveyed across the Atlantic Ocean in one of the splendid Steam-ships which sail between the United States and England, in about thirteen days. 3. Between what countries does the Indian Ocean flow? 4. What does the Northern Ocean occupy J 5. What does the Southern Ocean occupy ■? 6. What are found in the sea] 7. How is the Ocean preserved pure ■? 8. What does the Ocean enable us to do] ' No. 1. — WESTERN HEMISPHERE. MAP OF THE WESTERN HEMISPHERE. 29 LESSON 18.* On the opposite page is a Map of the Western Hemisphere. A Hemi- Bphere signifies half of a globe. The Western Hemisphere contains North America, South America, and part of Oceanica. Point out, on the Map, North America — South America — Oceanica. The two first divisions form the Western Continent. Point out the Pacific Ocean — Atlantic Ocean — JSorthern Ocean — Southern Ocean. The Pacific Ocean bounds America on the west ; the Atlantic Ocean on the east ; the Northern Ocean on the north ; and the Southern Ocean on the south. Point out the North Pole — South Pole — Equator. The North Pole is the northern extremity of the earth : the South Pole ia the southern extremity. The Equator is a great circle that passes round the earth, midway between the North and the South Poles. Point out, on the Map, the Arctic Circle — Antarctic Circle. All that part of the earth situated between the Arctic Circle and the North Pole, is the North Frigid Zone. That part situated between the Antarctic Circle and the South Pole, is the South Frigid Zone. The Frigid Zones are the coldest parts of the earth : the ground is covered nearly all the year with ice and snow. Point out, on the Map, the Tropic of Cancer — Tropic of Capricorn. That part of the earth situated between the Tropic of Cancer and the Arctic Circle, is the North Temperate Zone. That part situated between the Tropic of Capricorn and the Antarctic Circle, is the South Temperate Zone. In the Temperate Zones the weather is generally mild and pleasant. The North Temperate Zone contains the most important countries, and the most powerful nations in the world. We live in tlie North Temperate Zone. That part of the earth situated on both sides of the Equator, and between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn, is the Torrid Zone. The Torrid Zone is the warmest part of the earth. Here ice and snow are never seen, except on the tops of the highest mountains. Coffee, pepper, cloves, nutmegs, and many fine fruits, grow in the Torrid Zone. The in- habitants are chiefly black, or of dark complexion. * The Pupil win point, out, on the Map, the names in the lessons that are printed in Italic type, and read with attention the explanations given of (hem. This course will be pursued With all the lessons that are connected with the Maps. , No. 2. — EASTERN HEMISPHERE. MAP OP THE EASTERN HEMISPHERE. 31 LESSON 19. No. 2 is a Map of the Eastern Hemisphere, or eastern half of the earth. This Hemisphere includes the Eastern Continent, and part of Oceanica. Point out, on the Map, Europe — Asia — Africa — Oceanica. The threo first of these divisions form the Eastern Continent. About one-third part of Oceanica belongs to the Eastern Hemisphere, and the rest to the Western. Point out the Atlantic Ocean — Pacific Ocean — Northern Ocean — Southern Ocean — Indian Ocean. All these oceans, except the last, are parts of the oceans of the same name that are in the Western Hemisphere. Point out the North Pole — South Pole. These are the same that are on the Map of the Western Hemisphere. The earth contains but one North Pole, and one South Pole. Point out the Arctic Circle — Antarctic Circle — Tropic of Cancer — Tropic of Capricorn. These are parts of the lines of the same names that are on the Map of the Western Hemisphere. They all pass round the earth, and show the boundaries of the Frigid and Temperate Zones ; and also of the Torrid Zone. Point out the lines that cross the Map, from side to side. They are called parallels of latitude, and are numbered 10, 20, 30, &c. These figures signify degrees. Those bet'veen the Equator and the North Pole, are in North Latitude ; and those between the Equator and the South Pole, are in South Latitude. The different parts of the earth are said to be ii, north or south latitude, according as they are situated north or south of the Equator. Point out the British Islands — Japan Islands — Madagascar — Austra- lia. The two first are in north latitude, and the two last in south lati- • tude. Point out the lines that extend from the top to the bottom of the Map. They are called lines, or meridians of longitude. The numbers begin on the equator, at the line marked 0, which you will see directly under the word Guinea. This line is called the First Meridian. The other lines are numbered 10, 20, 30, &c., both east and west of the first meridian. Those parts of the earth that lie eastward of the first me- ridian, are said to be in east longitude, and those west of it in west longi- tude. Point out, on the Map, St. Helena — Java — New Guinea — Philippine Islands. The first is in west longitude; and the others in east longi- tude. 32 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. LESSON 20.* AMKRICA. 1. America, or the Western Continent, comprises North America and South America. It contains the largest river sand lakes in the world,and also manyhighmountains. 2. Ine population of America consists o{ Indians^ Whites^ and Negroes. The Indians are the native, or iirst inhabitants. The Whites are the descendants of" Europeans. The Negroes, or Blacks, were brought as slaves from Africa. The whole amounts to 50 millions. 3. The Indians are of a red, or copper colour. They are tall and straight in person, and can endure great hardship and fatigue. American Indians. Q,UESTioNs. — 1. What does America contain 1 2. Of what does the population consist ? 3. Of what colour are the Indians 1 * In the following Lessons, the number at the beginning of each paragraph, and that at the beginning of the Question annexed to it, will be made to correspond. NORTH AMERICA. 33 4. These people are divided into a number of small nations, or tribes. Many of them are armed only with hows and arrows, and subsist on the animals they kill in hunting. 5. The Esquimaux [Es-ke-mo] are a race somewhat similar to the Indians, but are not so tall. They live in the most northern parts of North America. Esquimaux Sledges, and Winter Hut. G. The winter huts of these people are made of slabs of ice, yet are sufficiently warm to shelter them from the cold. The sledges on which they travel from place to place are drawn by dogs. 7. More than one half of the white inhabitants of America speak the English, or the language that we 4. With what are they armed 1 5. Wher'^ do the Esquimaux live 1 G. Of v/hat are their winter huts made? 7. "What language do more than one half of the white inhabitants of America speak ? 3 34 PRIMARY GEOGRAPKY. use. Many speak the Spanish, some the Portuguese and French, and a few speak the Dutch. LESSON 21. NORTH AMERICA. 1. North America is the largest division of the West- ern Continent. It contains the most powerful nations, as well as the most populous cities in the New World, and twice as many inhabitants as South America. 2. The principal rivers are, the Mississippi, Missouri, St. Lawrence, Mackenzie's, Columbia, and Rio del Norte, 3. The largest lakes are, Superior, Michigan, Huron, Winnipeg, and the Great Slave Lake. 4. The most important mountains are the Rocky, the Alleghany, and the Mexican Cordilleras. The last con- tain many volcanoes, which send forth great clouds of smoke. Panther. Black Bear, Questions. — 1. What is North America 1 — What does it contain'^ 2. Name tlie principal rivers. 3. Which are the largest lakes ? 4. Which are the most important mountains ! 5. Which are am.ong NORTH AMERICA. 35 5. The wild beasts of North America are numerous ; among the largest are the Grisly Bear, Black Bear, Bvffalo, Musk Ox, Moose, Panther, and Deer. 6. Some of the best known of the birds, are the Bald Eagle, Wild Turkey, Canvas-hack Duck, and Humming" Bird. In the southern districts Alligators are nu- merous ; and there are many different kmds of snakes, of which the Rattlesnake is the most dangerous. Wild Turkey. Canvas-back Duck. 7. The principal countries of North America are, the United States, British America, Russian America, Green- land, Texas, Mexico, Guatimala [Gwa-te-mah'-la,] and the West Indies, the largest of the wild beasts ? 6. Which are some of the best known birds 1 — What are numerous in the southern districts — Which is the most dangerous of the snakes ] 7. Name the principal countries uf North America. 36 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. LESSON 22. UNITED STATES. 1. That part of America in which we hve, is called the United States, It is a very large country, and ex- tends from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean. The United States includes almost a third part of North America, and more than one half of its inhabitants. 2. Many parts of the United States possess a rich and fertile soil. In the eastern, middle, ■ and western states, com, wheat, and rye, with apples, peaches, pears, &c., are cultivated. In the southern states, cotton, to- bacco, rice, and sugar, are produced to a great extent. Cotton Plant. Rice. Sugar Cane. Cotton is a kind of white wool, produced from the Cotton Plant : muslin and calico are manufactured from cotton. The leaves of Tobacco are made into segars, chewing-tobacco, and snuff. Q,UESTioNS. — 1. What is that part of America in which: we live called 1 — How does it extend 1 2. What are cultivated in the east- ern, middle, and western states ? — What are produced in the southern UNITED STATES. 37 The Sugar Cane is a plant somewhat like Indian-corn ; the stalks contain a sweet juice, which, being pressed in a mill, runs out like water : great quantities of the juice are boiled in large pans, until the sugar is made. Rice is a hard, white grain, v/hich forms the chief food of the inhabitants in many parts of the earth. You have, no doubt, eaten some of it. 3. Iron, coal, salt, and lime, abound in many quarters. Gold is obtained from the gold mines of Virginia, North CaroHna, and Georgia ; and vast quantities of lead are made at the lead mines of Missouri, Wisconsin, and Iowa. Lead Mining. 4. The people of the United States are called Ameri- cans, and are nearly all employed in agriculture, manu- factures, and commerce. They are among the most intelligent, industrious, and enterprising people in the world, and are about 20 milHons in number. states'? 3. What abound in many quarters 7 — What is obtained from the gold mines of Virginia, &c. ? — What are made at the lead* mines of Wisconsin, &c. 7 4. What are the people of the United States 38 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. 5. American vessels sail to all parts of tlie earth ; and the American flag, the star-spangled banner, is known and respected by every civilized nation. 6. Many American Ships and Sailors are employed m catching Whales, Seals, Codfish, and Mackerel. The whale ships are often absent two or three years. The oil we burn in our lamps is made of the fat or blubber of the Whale. Seals are killed for the sake of their skins, or fur, of which caps, &c., are made. LESSON 23. UNITED ST ATE S— Continued. 1. In the United States there is no nobility ; every citizen is equal in civil and political rights. The son of the poorest man in the country, if he attends to his learning, and possesses abiUties, may become President. 2. Schools, Academies, and Colleges, are established in nearly every part of the United States, and almost every one may acquire a good education ; while in some countries, but few are able to read and write. 3. Steam-boats, Canals, and Rail-roads, are numerous in the United States. These all render travelling easy and rapid, and enable us to go from one city to another in a very short space of time. called] — What are they nearly all employed ml B. Where do American vessels sail 1 6. What are employed in catching whales, &c. Q,UE3TioNS. — 1. In what is every citizen equal 1 2. What are established, &c. 1 — What may almost every one acquire ] o. What UNITED STATES. 39 4. On the Great Lakes, and on the numerous rivers of this country, steam-vessels are employed in greater numbers tlian in any other part of the world. Steam- boats were first brought into use by Robert Fulton^ an ingenious American, and were first employed on the Hudson river ^ in the year 1807. Steamboat on a Western River. 5. The United States forms a federal republic, and is often called the Union, because it consists of a number of states united under one government. 6. There are twenty-eight states, five territories, and one district. The states are divided into the Eastern, Mid- dle, Southern, and Western States, are numerous ] 4. By whom were steam-boats first brought into use 1 On what river, and when were they first employed? 5. What does the United States form 1 — Why is the United States often called the Union 1 6. How many states, territories, and districts are there 1 — How are the states divided ] B* No. 8.— MAP OP THE UNITED STATES. (40) MAP OP THE UNITED STATES. 41 LESSON 24. No. 3 is a Map of the United States. It is bounded on the east by the Atlantic Ocean, on the north, by British America ; south, by the Gulf of JMexico and tlie Republic of Mexico ; west, by the Pacific Ocean. Near the top of the Map, on the right hand, or east side, the scholar will find Maine — New Hampshire — Vermont-^Massachusetts — Rhode Island, nnd Connecticut. These six are called the Eastern or New England States. For want of room on the Map, Massachusetts is put thus, Massa^. ; New Hampshire thus, N. Hampshire ; and Connecticut thus, Connt. Point out New York New Jersey — Pennsylvania, and Delaware. These lour are called the Middle States. Point out Mart/land — Virginia — North Carolina — South Carolina — Georgia — Florida — Alabama — Mississippi — Louisiana, and Texas. These ten are called the Southern States. Texas lies west of Louisiana and the Indian Territory, and north of the Gulf of Mexico. It is the twenty-eighth State, and was admitted into the Union in the year 1845. Texas is seven times larger than Pennsylvania. Near the middle of the Map, the scholar will find Ohio ; then Kentucky — Tennessee — Indiana — Illinois — Missouri — Michigan — Arkansas. Point them out. These eight are called the Western States, On the left hand, or west side of the Map, will be found Wisconsin Ter- ritory — Iowa Territory, and the Indian Territory. Point them out. Far- tlier west, there are Missouri Territory, and Oregon Territory. The two last are not shown on this Map. These five divisions are called the Western Territories. At the top of the Map are Lake Superior -^L. Huron — L. Michigan — L. Erie, and L. Ontario. Point them out. These are called the Great Lakes. They separate the United States, in part, from British Am.erica. Point out the Mississippi River. This river has its source in Itasca Lake, and flows into the Gulf of Mexico. Including the Missouri, its largest Dranch, the Mississippi is the longest river in the world. Point out Itasca Lake — Missouri River — Arkansas R. — Red R. — Ohio R. These are the largest branches of the Mississippi River. Point out the Alleghany Mountains — • Cumberland Mt^ — Blue Ridge. These are the principal mountains in the eastern part of the United States. The highest summits of tlie Blue Ridge are about a mile and a quarter high. Point out Washington — New York —^Philadelphia — Baltimore — Bos- ton — Neio Orleans. Washington is the capital of the United States : tho others are the largest cities. 42 rRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. LESSON 25. EASTERN STATES. 1. The territory forming the Eastern States, was at first called New England^ and it is still known by that name. The climate in these states is generally colder in winter, and the soil is, for the most part, less fertile than in the other sections of the Union. 2. Maine is tlie largest of the Eastern States, New Hampshire contains the White Mountains, and Ver- mont the Green Mountains. 3. The population of Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, is greater than that of any other region of equal extent in America. School-House. Eiiiii'rants to the Wtst. Q,UESTroNs. — 1. What was the territory forming the Eastern States at first called 1 2. What is Maine 1 3. What is the population of Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island? 4. For what are EASTERN STATES. 43 4. The people of New England are remarkable for iheir industry, good morals, and general intelligence. 5. Churches, Colleges, and Schools, are numerous. The Sabbath is respected, the churches are well at- tended, and there are very few persons to be met witli who cannot read and write. The inhabitants of these states are often called Yankees, a name supposed to have been first given to them by the Indians, and said to signify English. Numbers of these people emigrate every year to other sections of the Union, and in the western states they form a large and important part of the population. 6. The New Englanders employ many vessels in the Whale Fishery, and in catching Codfish, and Mackerel. They manufacture a great variety and amount of Woollen, Cotton, and other kinds of goods. 7. These states possess more Ships and Seamen, iJian any other section of the Union, and their commerce is very extensive : they send to various parts of the world vast quantities of lumber, fish, oil, and various articles of domestic manufacture. 8. The largest towns in New England are, Boston, Lowell, Providence, Salem, Portland, New Haven, and Hartford, Boston is noted for the enterprise of its in- habitants, its fine harbour, and the great number of its ships. No less than seven railroads begin at Boston. the inhabitants of New England remarkable 1 5. What are nume- rous"! 6. In what do the New Englanders employ many vessels ] — Of what do they manufacture a great variety and amount 1 7. What do these states possess? 8, Which are the largest tov/ns in New 11 PRIMARY GliOGRAi'HY. South Bovton. View of Boston. aauker'i illU. 9. In Boston the American Revolution first began ; the taxed tea sent from England was destroyed j and, in the vicinity of the city, the battles of Lexington and Bunker's Hill were fought. LESSON 26. MIDDLE STATES. L The Middle States are situated between the East- ern and Southern divisions of the Union. They form the most pojmlous and wealthy section of tlie United States, and contain the largest cities in America. 2. The climate is more mild, in winter, than in New England, the cold is less severe, and does not last so long. England? — For what is Boston noted 1 9. What first began in Bosicn ] dofriTioNs. — 1, What do the MiddleStates form? 2. What is the eiimate, compared with that of New England ! 3. For what are MIDDLE STATES. 45 3. These states are noted for their numerous Canals and Rail-roads. The people carry on a flourishing commerce, besides various and extensive manufactures. 4. New York has more inhabitants than any other state in the Union ; Pennsylvania possesses vast quanti- ties of Coal and Iron; New Jersey is v/ell known for fme Fruits and Vegetables; Delaware produces excellent IJ^eat. New York Harbour, Steam-Ship, &;c. 5. The city of New York is the most populous on the Western Continent. Its harbour is deep and commo- dious, and a great multitude of vessels, of all kinds, steam-ships, &c., are to be found at its wharves. 6. New York is the metropolis of the United States, these states noted 1 4. What has New York 1 — What does Penn- sylvania possess 1 — For what is New Jersey well known? — What does Delaware produce 1 5. What is the city of New York 7 6. Of what is New York the metropolis 1 7. For what is Philadelphia dis- 4a PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. and Is also one of the greatest commercial cities in the world. Its merchants carry on a rich and extensive trade with almost every quarter of the globe. 7. Philadelphia is next to New York in the number of its inhabitants. It is distinguished for tlie regularity of its streets, as well as the beauty of its public buildings and private dwellings. Congress signing the Declaration of Independence. 8. In the State House, in Philadelphia, Congress signed and declared the independence of the United States, on the 4th of July, 1776. 9. Brooklyn, Albany, Rochester, and Buffalo, in the state of New York ; Newark, in New Jersey ; Lancas- ter and Pittsburg, in Pennsylvania, and Wilmirtgton, in Delaware, are the principal cities in the Middle States. tinguishedl 8. What was signed and declared in the State House in Philadelphia ■? 9. Which are the principal cities in the Middle States 1 SOUTHERN STATES. 47 LESSON 27. SOUTHERN STATES. 1. The Southern States form the most southern part of the Union. The chmate is generally warm, and ice and snow are, in many places, but seldom seen* 2. Virginia was the earliest settled state, and hence is often called the " old dominion." Washington, Jefferson, Madison, Monroe, and Harrison, all illustrious patriots, and presidents of the United States, were natives of Virginia. 3. Many of the inhabitants of these states are Plant- ers^ who own extensive farms, or plantations, which are cultivated by slaves. The slaves are negroes, and form about one-third of the population. Cotton Field. (Questions. — 1. What do the Southern States form 1 2. Who were natives of Virginia ] 3. What are many of the people, &-c. called ! c 48 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. 4. In Virginia and Maryland, large quantities of Tobacco are raised. North and South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Texas, are noted for Cotton^ a-id Louisiana for Sugar and Molasses. Rice is culti- V ited in South Caroliiia and Georgia. 5. The principal cities of the Southern States are, Baltimore, Washington, Charleston, and New Orleans. Baltimore is noted for its Battle Momunent, and the Monument erected in memory of General Washington. 6. The city of Washington is the capital of the United States. It is situated in the District of Columbia : here the President resides, and Congress assembles every year. 4. What are raised in Virginia and Maryland? — For wliat arc North and South Carolina, &c., noted ? — For what is Louisiana noted'! — Where is rice cultivated? 5. Which are the principal cities'! — For what is Baltiraoro noted'! G. Where k the r-ity of WESTEHN STATES AND TERRITORIES. 49 7. Congress consists of the Members of the Senate, and House of Representatives : this body is the legislature of the United States, and makes laws for the government of the nation. The house in which Congress meets is called the Capitol, and is the largest and finest building of the kind in America. 8. Charleston is remarkable for the politeness and hospitality of its inhabitants. New Orleans is noted for the number of Ships and Steam-boats that crowd its levee, or landing along the river. A vast amount of sugar, molasses, cotton, and tobacco, is sent from this city. LESSON 28. WESTERN STATES AND TERRITORIES. 1. The region composing the Western States and Territories, is often called the Western Country. It is situated westward of the Middle and Southern States, and is noted for its large tracts of fertile land, 2. The greater part of these states was, but a few years ago, the abode only of Indians and wild beasts ; but they now contain a vast number of white inhabit- ants, and thousands of people are every year emigrat- ing to this land of plenty. 3. Among the early settlers, Daniel Boone, one of the first white Washington situated ■? 7. Of what does Congress consist? 8. For what is Charleston remarkable 1 — For what is New Orleans noted 1 Q,uESTioNs. — 1. What is the region composing the Western States, &c., often called 1 2. What were the Western States a few years ago ? 3. Who was one of the first white men that lived in Kentucky^? 50 I'lllMAliY GliOGilAPHY. men that ever lived in Kentucky, was noted for his courage and hardihood: he resided for a considerable time in the solitary wilder- ness, with no companions but his dogs. Daniel Boone. 4. Ohio is the most populous of tJie Western States^ and is noted for its canals and manufactures. Ken- tucky is noted for its great Caves, and Tennessee for Iron Works, 5. Indiana and Michigan contain extensive Plains, or Prairies: Missouri, Wisconsin, and lov/a, arc cele- brated for their Lead Mines, and Arkansas for its hot Springs. 6. Cincinnati, Louisville, St. Louis, Detroit, Nashville, and Chicago, are the chief cities in the Western States. i. What is Ohio? — For what is Kentucky noted] — Tennessee 1 5. What do Michigan, Indiana, and Illinois contain 1 — For what are Missouri, Wisconsin, and Iowa celebrated 1 Arkansas'! 6. Which WESTERN STATES AND TERRITORIES. 51 7. Cincinnati was founded in the year 1789, on a spot surrounded by thick woods. It now contains 60,000 inhabitants, and has nume- rous churches, schools, and other public institutions, 8. Nearly all the Indians in the United States reside in the Western Territories. Some of them have good Houses and Farms, and have been taught to read and write by the missionaries. Others roam over the vast prairies of the Far West, and hunt the Buffalo and other Wild Beasts. The missionaiics are good men, who teach savage nations to read the Bible, worship the true God, and to live like Christians. 9. The first settlers of the Western States were exposed to many dangers ; their houses were often attacked, and their wives and children murdered by the Indians: these outrages, however, now take place less frequently, and the savages are every year becoming less numerous and formidable, Indians auackjng White Settlers. are the chief cities? 7. When was Cincinnati founded ? 8. Where do nearly al! the Indians, &-c., reside 1 — What do some of them have ? —What do others hunt ? 9. To what were the first settlers exposed ? Na. 4. — EASTERN OR NEW ENGLAND STATES. MAP OF THE NEW ENGLAND STATES. 53 LESSON 29. Map No. 4 is a Map of the Eastern, or New England States. This division of the United States comprises six States. It is bounded on the north by Canada East south by the Atlantic Ocean and Long Island Sound ; east by New Brunswick and the Atlantic Ocean, and west by the State of New York. Point out, on the Map, Maine — Neio Hampshire — Vermont — Massachu- setts — Connecticut — Rhode Island. These are the Eastern States. Maine is the largest. Rhode Island is the smallest State, and the smallest in the Union. Massachusetts contains more inhabitants than any of the other Eastern States. Point out Canada East — New Brunswick — New York — Atlantic Ocean — Long Island Sound. Point out St. John's River — St. Croix R. — Penobscot R. — Kennebeck R. — Androscoggin R. — Merrimack R. — Connecticut R. — Thames R. These are the principal rivers in New England. The St. John's river is partly in Maine, and partly in New Brunswick. Point out the White Mountains — Green Mountains — Mount Katahdin. These are the principal mountains in the Eastern States. Mount Washing- ton is the highest of the White Mountains, and the highest in New England. It is about a mile and a quarter high. The summit is nearly all the time covered with snow. Point out Lake Champlain — Moosehead L. — Grand L. — Winnipiseo- gee L. [Win-ne-pe-s6-ge]. Lake Champlain belongs partly to Vermont, and partly to New York. Its waters flow into Sorelle River, and thence into the St. Lawrence. Point out Grand Menan Island — Mount Desert Island — Nantucket Island — Martha's Vineyard — Block Island. The first island belongs to New Brunswick; the second, to Maine; the third and fourth, to Massachu- setts ; and the fifth, to Rhode Island. Nantucket is noted for the number of vessels belonging to it, that are employed in the whale fishery. Point out Augusta — Concord — .Montpelier — Boston — Providence — New- port — New Haven — Hartford. These cities are the capitals of the New England States. Rhode Island and Connecticut have each two capitals. Point out Portland — Bangor — Portsmouth — Newburyport — Salem — Lowell — New London. These are among the most important cities in the Eastern States, that are not capitals. Pomt out Passamaqiioddy Bay — Penobscot Bay — Cape Cod. No. 5. — MAP OF THE MIDDLE STATES. MAP OF THE MIDDLE STATES. 55 LESSON 30. No. 5 is a Map of the Middle States. This section of the Union com- prises four States. It is bounded, on the north, by Canada ; ea?t, by New England, and the Atlantic Ocean ; south, by Maryland and Virginia ; and west, by Ohio and Canada. Point out, on the Map, New York — New Jersey — ■ Pennsylvania — Delaware. These are the Middle States. New York is the largest of the Middle States ; Pennsylvania is the se- cond in extent ; New Jersey is the third ; Delaware is the smallest. Point out Canada East — Canada West — Vermont — Massachusetts — Connecticut — Ohio — Virginia — Maryland — Atlantic Ocean. Point out Lake Ontario — Lake Erie — L. Champlain — L. George — Oneida L. — Cayuga L. — Seneca L. Lake Ontario, and part of Lake Erie, separate the Middle States from Canada West. Point out the St. Lawrence River — Niagara R. — Hudson R. — Dela- ware R. — Susquehanna R. — Ohio R. — Alleghany R. — Monongahela R. — Juniata R. — Schuylkill R. [Skool'-kil] — Genesee R. — Mo- hawk R. The St. Lawrence river forms part of the boundary between New York and Cadada West The Delaware river forms the boundary between the States of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Point out the Falls of Niagara. These falls are the most celebrated in the world. They are in the Niagara river, which forms part of the boundary between New York and Canada West. Point out the Alleghany Mountains — Blue Ridge — Highlands. Point out Albany — Trenton — Harrishurg — Dover. These are the capitals of the Middle States. Point out New York — Brooklyn — Troy — Rochester, and Buffalo, m the State of New York; Newark, &xiA Brunswick, in New Jersey; Phila- delphia — Lancaster, and Pittsburg, in Pennsylvania ; Wilmington, in Delaware. These are the principal cities, in the Middle States, that are not capitals. Point out Long Island — Delaware Bay. Long Island forms part of the State of New York. Point out the Erie Canal. This work extends from Albany to Buffalo. It IS three hundred and sixty miles in .<'''gth. Point out the Pennsylvania Canal and Rail-Road. These works extend from Philadelphia to Pittsburg, three hundred and ninety-four mi'es. No 6. — MAP OF THE SOUTHERN STATES. MAP OF THE SOUTHERN STATES. 57 LESSON 31. Map No. 6, is a Map of the Southern States. This section of the Unitctl States comprises ten States, and one District. Point out Maryland — Virginia — North Carolina — South Carolina — > Georgia — Florida — Alabama — Mississippi — Louisiana, and Texas. These are the Southern States. Texas is the largest Southern State. It once belonged to Mexico, but the people declared their independence in 1836. In the same year, they defeated the Mexicans at the battle of San Jacinto, and took Santa Anna, their President, prisoner. Point out Washington Cily. It is situated in the District of Columbia. This District is ten miles square. It lies partly on the north side of the Potomac river, and partly oa the south side. You will see the District of Columbia on Map No. 5. Besides Washington City, it contains the cities of Georgetown and Alexandria. The Southern States are bounded on the north by Pennsylvania ; east, by the Atlantic Ocean ; south, by the Gulf of Mexico ; and west, by Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, and Mexico. Point out Pennsylvania — Atlantic Ocean — Gulf of Mexico — Ken- tucky — Tennessee — Arkansas — Mexico. See Map No. 8. Point out Annapolis — Richmond — Raleigh — Columbia — Milledgc- ville — Tuscaloosa — Jackson — New Orleans — Tallahassee — Austin. These are the capitals of the Southern States. Point out Baltimore — Charleston — Savannah — Mobile. These are the chief cities in the Southern States that are not capitals. Point out the Potomac Rivei James R. — Roanoke R. — Neuse R. — Cape Fear R. — Pedee R. — Santee R. — Alatamaha R. — St. Johi's R. These are the principal rivers of the Southern States that flow into the Atlantic Ocean. Point out the Chattahoochee River — Alabama R. — Pearl R. — Missis- tippi R. — Sabine R. These rivers flow into the Gulf of Mexico. The lower part of the Chattahoochee river is also called the Apalachicola. Point out the Red River — Washita R. — Yaxoo R. These flow into the Mississippi. Point out the Tennessee R. — Kanawha R. — Mononga- hela R. These flow into the Ohio. Point out Chesapeake Bay — Tampa Bay — Apalachee Bay. Roanoke river flows into Albemarle Sound ; and the Neuse river into Pamlico Sound. Point out the Cumberland Mountains — Alleghany Mountains — Blue Ridge. The Cumberland mountains separate Virginia and Kentucky. The Alleghany mountains separate North Carolina and Tennessee. Point out Ccpe Hatteras — Cape Cannaveral — Cape Sable. No. 7.— MAP OF THE WESTERN STATES AND TERRITORIES. yGEORGllAS Longitufle mst\fTom Washinglon (58) MAP OF THE WESTERN STATES. 59 LESSON 32. No. 7 is a Map of the Western States and Territories. This section of the United States contains eight States and five Territories. It is bounded, on the north, by British America ; south, by the Southern States ; east, by the Southern and Middle States ; and west, by the Pacific Ocean. Point out, on the Map, Ohio — Kentucky — Tennessee — Indiana — llli- nois — Missouri — Michigan — Arkansas. These are the Western States. Point out Wisconsin Territory — Iowa Territory — Missouri Territory — Indian Territory. Farther west, is Oregon Territory. It is not shown on this Map, but may be seen on Map No. 8. It extends along the west, or Pacific coast of the United States. The Indian, Missouri, and Oregon Territories, are inhabited by Indians. Oregon City, in Oregon, is a new town. Point out Lake Superior — L. Huron — L. Michigan — L. Erie — L. St. Clair — Itasca L. — Lake of the Woods. Itasca Lalie is the source of the Mississippi River. Point out the Mississippi River — Missouri R. — Ohio R. — Illinois R. — Arkansas R. — Tennessee R. — Wisconsin R. — Iowa R. These rivers have all given names to States or Territories. The Kentucky River, on which Frankfort stands, gave name to the State of Kentucky. Point out St. Peter^s River — Des Moines R. — Rock R. — St. Francis^ R, — White R. — Platte R. — James R. — Kanzas R. — Osage R. The first five rivers are branches of the Mississippi. The others are branches of the Missouri. Point out the Cumberland River — Wabash R. — Scioto R. These are branches of the Ohio. Point out the Alleghany Mountains — Cumberland Mountains. These mountains separate part of the Western from the Southern States. Point out the Choctaivs — Creeks — Cherokees — Shawnees. These are the most civilized of the Indian Tribes. Many of the people have been taught to read and write, and to cultivate the ground. Point out the Osages — Kickapoos — Sacs, and Foxes — Pawnees — Riccarees — Assiniboines — Winnebagoes — Chippeways — Sioux [Sooz]. These Indians generally live by hunting. Point out Columbus — Frankfort — Nashville — Indianapolis — Spring- field — Jefferson City — Detroit — Little Rock — Madison — Iowa City. These are the capitals of the Western States and Territories. Point out Cincinnati — Louisville — St. Louis — Chicago — Cleveland — Lexington. These are the principal cities and towns, in the V/ estern States that are not capitals. 60 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. LESSON 33. GREENLAND, BRITISH AMERICA, &c. 1. Greenland is the most northern part of America, €Lnd lies much nearer to the north pole than any part of the United States. It belongs to Denmark, and is one of the coldest countries in the world. Walruses, or Sea Cows, Seals, and White Bears, abound here. Walruses — White Bears. Greenlander killing a Seal. S. The inhabitants of Greenland are dexterous in thn management of their Canoes, and kill Seals in the way shown in the picture. Some of these people have been taught, by the missionaries, to read the Bible, and at tend Christian worship. duESTioNS. — 1. What is Greenland? 2. In what are the inhabi- tants dexterous? — What have some of the people been taught? RUSSIAN AND BRITISH AMERICA. 61 3. Russian America, or the Russian Possessions, occupies the most western part of America. Tiiis is a cold, barren region, inhabited by Indians and Esqui- maux, and a few Russians : the latter are engaged in trading with the natives for furs. 4. British America belongs to Great Britain. It con- tains New Britain^ Canada East, Canada West, Nevj Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland. 5. It is very cold in these regions in winter, and the summers are shorter than in the United States ; yet, in some parts of the country, good crops of Indian-corn, WJieat, &c., are produced. Falls of Niagara. C. The Cataract, or Falls of Niagara, surpass all others in th& 3. What does Russian America occupy 1 4. What does British America contain ? 5. What are produced in some parts of the country"? 6. For what do the Falls of Niagara surpass all others'? 62 PRIMAUY GEOGRAPHY. v/orld Tor grandeur and magnificence: the whole of the water flow- ing from the great lakes, descends over a rock that is much highev than the highest houses: the roar of the cataract is heard for several miles. 7. Montreal, in Canada East, is tJie capital of the British Possessions. It is the largest city in British America. I'he Roman Catholic cathedral, in Montreal, is the largest place of worship in the New World. It will accommodate ten thousand people. 8. New Brunswick has an extensive trade in timber, and Nova Scotia in Plaster of Paris, Coals, &;c. New- foundland is noted for its Cod fisheries, which employ a great many American, English and French vessels, and fishermen. LESSON 34. MEXICO AND UPPER CALIFORNIA. 1. Mexico, formerly called New Spain, is an exten- sive country, which belonged to the Spanish govern- ment for almost three hundred years ; but it has been independent of that power since the year 1821. 2. The silver mines of Mexico have been long celebrated, and 7. What is Montreal 1 8. In what has New Brunswick an extensive trade] — In what has Nova Scotia ■? — For what is Newfoundland noted? — What do they employ? Questions. — I. What was Mexico formerly called? — Since what time has it been independent] 2. What have the silver mines MEXICO AND UrPER CALIFORNIA. 63 nave yielded immense wealth. One of the mines is said to be a quarter of a mile deep, and to extend eight miles under ground. 3. Indian-Corn, Sugar, Coffee, Indigo, and Cochineal, are the chief products of this country. The juice of the Maguey plant, or American Aloe, furnishes the princi- pal drink of the lower class of the people. 4. The inhabitants of Mexico profess the Catholic religion : they are composed of Whites, Indians, and other races : about one half are Indians, who are par- tially civilized, and are, for the most part, formers and labourers. They amount to about seven millions. 5. Mexico, the capital, is one of the finest cities in America : it con- tains many handsome buildings, and is surrounded by lakes and high mountains. On some of the lakes in the vicinity of the city, there are floating gardens, that can be moved from place to place : a variety of fine fruits and vegetables are raised on them. 6. UprER California was, until latel}^ the north- v'estern province of Mexico, but it is now independent. It lies along the shores of the Pacific Ocean. 7. On the coast the land is excellent for wheat. The interior is but little known ; part of it is said to be a sandij desert. San Fran- cisco Bay is one of the finest harbours in the world: it is much vis- ited by American vessels. 8. The inhabitants of California consist or Mexicans, Indians, and some Americans. Many individuals from the United States are emigrating thither. Cattle and horses are numerous. yielded] 3. What are the chief products'? — What is the principal drink of the lower class T 4. What do the inhabitants profess 1 — Of what are they composed"? 5. What is Mexico? — What are there on some of the lakes ] 6. What was Upper California'? — What is it now ■? 7. What is the land ? — The interior 1 — San Francisco Bay ] 8. Of what do the inhabitants consist ? c* 64 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. LESSON 35. GUATIMALA AND THE WEST INDIES. 1. GuATiMALA, or Central America, occupies the most southern part of North America^ Like Mexico, it was long subject to Spain, but is now also independent. The soil is fertile, and silver mines are numerous. 2. Among the mountains of this country there are several volca- noes ; one of these occasionally throws out vast quantities of water : it is called the Water Volcano. 3. Earthquakes often occur, by some of which cities have been destroyed. San Salvador is the capital of this I'epublic, but New Guatimala is the principal town. Earthquakes are violent shakings of1:he earth, in which the ground sometimes opens, and ingulfs large cities : fire, smoke, and even torrents of water, occasionally burst forth from those fearful openings. In our happy country, earthquakes seldom take place, and are never very violent. 4. The West Indies comprise a considerable number of islands, of which Cuba, Ilayti, and Jamaica, are the largest. Some of these islands belong to Spain, some to Great Britain, and to other European nations. 5. Hayti, or St. Domingo, is inhabited altogether by negroes, who have become independent, and have a government and president of their own. On this island the first Spanish colony in America, was established by Columbus. Port au Prince is the capital of Hayti. (Questions. — 1. What does Guatimala occupy? 2. What is one of the volcanoes called ? 3. What often occur f 4. Which are the largest of the West India islands? 5. On what island are the ne- ' groes independent? — What was established here by Columbus'! THE WEST INDIES. 65 6. The climate of the W est Indies is warm, and the soil very fertile. Sugar, Coffee, Allspice, Oranges, Pine- apples, and Bananas, are the chief products. A great number of vessels trade constantly between the United Slates and the West Indies. Hurricane in the West Indies. 7. Tremendous hurricanes, or storms of wind and rain, sometimes occur, in which great damage is sustained. Houses and trees are blown down by trie force of the wind, and ships are swallowed up by the raging waves of the ocean. 8. These islands are inhabited mostly by negroes, about one-fourth of whom are slaves. The white inhabitants are chiefly planters and merchants. The slaves in the British islands were set free in 1838. 9. Havana is the largest city in the West Indies ; Kingston is the largest city in the British islands, and St. Pierre [Peer] in the French. 6. What are the chief products ? 7. What sometimes occur ? — What are blown down? — What are swallowed up] 8. By whom are these islands mostly inhabited ? — What are the white inhabitants chiefl}'-? 9. Which is the largest city in the West Indies] 5 No. 8. — MAP OF NORTH AMERICA MAP OF NOllTH AMERICA. 67 LESSOr^ 36. No. 8 is a Map of North America. This is the largest division of the Western Continent. It contains the most important nations, and the chief paj-t of the inhabitants of the New World. The Northern Ocean bounds North America, on the north ; the Pacific Ocean, on the west ; and the Atlantic Ocean, on the east. The Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea bound it on the south. Point out, on the Map, the Northern Ocean — Pacific Ocean — Atlantic Ocean — Caribbean Sea — Baffin'' s Bay — Hudson'' s Bay — Honduras Bay — Gulf of Mexico — Gulf of California. Point out Bhering''s [Beer'-ings] Strait — Davis' Strait — Hudson'' s Strait — Bellisle [Bel-ile'l Strati. Bhering's Strait is forty miles wide. It separates North America from Asia, at the part where they approach nearest each other. Point out the Rocky Mountains — Mexican Cordilleras — Alleghany Mountains — Mount St. Elias — Mount Brown. The highest mountain in North America is Mount St. Elias. It is more than three miles high. Point out Great Slave Lake — L. Winnipeg — L. Superior — L. Huron — L. Michigan — L. Erie. Point out Mackenzie's River — Nelson R. — Saskatchawan R. — Missis^ sippi R. — Rio del Norte — Columbia R. — St. Lawrence R. The last ia the river on which Montreal stands. Point out the West Indies — the islands of Cuba — Hayli — Ja7naica — Porto Rico — Caribbee Islands — St. Salvador. The latter is the first part of America that was discovered by Columbus. Point out the Peninsula of Alaska — California — Yucatan — Florida — Nova Scotia. Point out the Russian Possessions — Greenland — United States — Upper California — Mexico — Guatimala, or Central America. Point out New Britain — Canada — Neio Brunswick (this is represented, on the Map, by the letters N. B.) — Nova Scotia — Newfoundland. These divisions comprise British America. Point out Boothia — Prince William'' s Land — Labrador — East Main — New Wales. These are districts belonging to New Britain. Point out Montreal — Washington — Mexico — St. Salvador. These are the capitals of the North American States. Point out New York — Philadelphia — Baltimore — La Puehla — Ha- vana. The first is the largest city in America : the last is the largest in the West Indies. .68 PRIMARY GECGUAPHY. LESSON 37. HISTORY OF AMERICA. Besides the geography of the United States and other parts of America which the scholar has studied, it is necessary that some linowledge of the history of those countries should be acquired. 1 . Geography tells us where a country is situated, and what it contains. By history we are informed ivhat events have taken place in any particular part of the earth in times past. 2. America is often called the New World, because it has not been so long known as Europe, Asia, and Africa. It was discovered in the year 1492, by Chris- topher Columbus, an Italian navigator. Columbus leaving Palos. Q,uESTioNS. — 1. What does geography tell usl — Of what are wo informed by history ] 2. When, and by whom, was America dis- HISTORY OF AMERICA. 69 3. Columbus was a learned and ingenious man : he supposed that by sailing westward from Europe, he would arrive at the East In- dies, and be able to bring back with him the gold, diamonds, and rich spices with which that part of the earth was known to abound. 4. After experiencing many delays, Columbus set sail from Palos, a port in Spain, and in a few weeks he landed on St. Salvador, or Guanahani, one of the islands now called the West Indies. 5. Columbus found the inhabitants Mnd and friendly, but different in form and complexion from any race he had ever before seen. Being persuaded that the islands he had discovered were a part of India, he named the people Indians ; and the term was afterwards applied to all the original inhabitants of America. 6. On the return of Columbus to Spain, he was received with great distinction, and every one rejoiced at the discovery he had made. He afterwards performed three other voyages to America, during which he found other islands, and discovered the Continent. 7. In the year 1499, Americus Vespucius, also an Italian, visited the New World. On his return to Europe he published the first account ever given of it, and artfully induced many persons to be- heve that he was the original discoverer : America was, in conse- quence, unjustly named after him, instead of Columbus. 8. Being found to contain great quantities of gold and silver, America was soon visited by many unprincipled Spaniards, who, in their pursuit after wealth, robbed the natives, and-treated them with great cruelty. covered 1 3. At what part of the earth did Columbus suppose he would arrive 1 4. From what port did he set sail I — On what island did he land 1 5. What did Columbus find the inhabitants to be 1 — What did he call them 1 6. How was Columbus received, on bis re- turn to Spain 'l — What did he afterwards perform 1 7. When did Americus Vespucgus visit the New World 1 8. What was America found to contain 1 70 PEIMARY GEOGRAPHY. LESSON 38. HISTORY OP NORTH AMERICA. 1. America, at the time it was discovered, contained two populous Empires ; Mex'co, in North, and Peru, in South America. 2. The inhabitants of these countries were not sa- vages, hke many of the other Indians ; they had regu- lar govertiments, and hved in cities and towns of some extent^ one of which, the city of Mexico, was so large, that it was supposed to contain twenty thousand houses. 5. in a short time Cortex, a Spanish General, landed in Mexico, and began the conquest of that country : his soldiers were supplied with guns, cannon and horses. The Mexicans, though much more numerous, were armed only with bows and arrows, and clubs. 4. The fire and noise of the cannon were by them believed to be lightning' and thunder from heaven; and the horses, which they had never before seen, they supposed to be, with their riders, hideous and cruel vionsters. The Mexicans were, in consequence, terrified, and alarmed, and were finally subdued by the Spaniards. 5. The first settlement or colony established in the country we inhabit, was made by people from England, in the year 1607. The first town they built was James- town, on James river, in Virginia. Q,uESTioNs. — 1. What empires were in America at the time it was discovered? 2. What had the inhabitants'? — In what did they live ! 3. Who landed in Mexico 1 4. What did those people believe the fire and noise of the cannon to be ] — What didfthey suppose tlie horses and their riders to hel 5. By whom was the first settle'- ment, &c., made, and in what year"! — What town did they build! i HISTORY OF NORTH AMERICA. 71 6. The settlers were often attacked by the natives, and fought many battles with them, in one of which. Captain John Smith, a brave and gallant soldier, was taken prisoner. Pocahontas saving the Life of Captain Smith. 7. Captain Smith was condemned to death ; and, when the savages were about to destroy him with their clubs, Pocahontas, the daugh- ter of the Indian chief into whose power he had fallen, intei-ceded for him, and induced her father to spare his life. 8. He returned to Jamestown, and was received by his friends with joy and gladness. Pocahontas, his deliverer, was, some time after- wards, married to an Englishman of the name of Rolfe, who carried her to England, where she was j^resented to King James I. LESSON 39. HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 1. At various periods, within seventy or eighty years after the settlement of Virginia, colonies were estab- 6. Who was taken prisoner by the Indians 1 7. Who induced her father to spare Captain Smith's life? 8. To whom was Pocahontas married T Questions. — 1. Where were colonics established by the English? D 72 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. lished by the English, in New England, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and the Carolinas, 2. New York was colonized by the Dutch, but was afterwards con- quered by the English. New Jersey was at first settled by the Danes ; Delaware by the Swedes and Finns ; and Michigan, Illinois, &c., by the French. All these colonies became in time British provinces. Landing of the Pilgrims. 3. The first white inhabitants of New England landed at Plymouth, in the year 1620, and were called the Pil- grims. They were a religious and moral people, who left their native country, because they were not per- mitted to worship God in the manner they believed to be agreeable to his will. 4. The Pilgrims suffered much from the hostilities of the natives, and the severities of the climate, but they persevered in their exertions 2. What nation colonized New York 1 — Who settled New Jersey 1 — Delaware ? — Michigan, and Illinois 1 3. Where, and at what time, did the first white inhabitants of New England land ^ — What were they called? 4. From what did the Pilgrims suffer 1 .5. When HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. to settle tlie country. They founded cities and towns, churches and colleges ; and from a small and feeble band, have become a numerous and important people. 5. In the year 1682, a number of Friends, or Quakers, came with William Penn fromEnfrland. They founded the city of Philadelphia, and settled Pennsyl- vania ; which became, in a short time, one of the most flourishing colonies in North America. William Penn's Treaty with the Indians, at Philadelphia. 6. William Penn was a good and just man. He ac- quired the friendship of the Indians, formed a treaty with them, and paid them for the lands that the colonists occupied. 7. He was, in consequence, greatly beloved by these people. They re- spected his memory for many years after his death, and lived in peace and harmony for a long time with the inhabitants of Pennsylvania. did William Penn come from England ? 6. What was William Penn ? — What did he do with the Indians? 7. What took place in conse- 74 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. 8. Canada, and nearly the whole of what is now British America, was lirst settled by, and remained for a considerable period in, the possession of the French; but about eighty years ago, it was con- quered by the English. 9. At the battle of Quebec, fought between the soldiers of these two nations, the generals of both armies were killed. General "Wolfe was the English, and the Marquis Montcalm the French commander. LESSON 40. HISTORY OF THE UNITED ST AT ES— Con tin u ed. 1. The British Colonies, now the United States, though much smaller seventy years ago than at present, were, however, very Jlourishing arid prosperous. George III., then king of Great Britain, unjustly laid a tax upon tea and various other articles tJiat the people were in the habit of ohtaining from Europe. 2. The payment of the tax being resisted by the American people, they were, in consequence, called rebels by the British government, and fleets and armies were sent from England to fight against them. 3. In order to defend themselves, the inhabitants of this country raised armies, and appointed George Washington to be commander- in-chief, with Generals Greene, Gates, Wayne, Putnam, and others, under him. 4. The first battle was fought at Lexington, and the next at Bun- ker's Hill. Though the Americans were unaccustomed to war, and badly armed, yet they repulsed many of the bravest soldiers in the king's army, commanded by some of his best generals. quencel 8. When was Canada conquered by the English ? 9. What took place at the battle of Q-uebecl Q,uESTioN3. — 1. What were the British colonies seventy years ago ? — Upon what did the king of England lay a tax 1 2. What were the Americans called? — What were sent from England to fight against theit^ ] 3. Vv'ho was appointed commander-in-chief? — Who were appomted under him? 4. Where v/ere the two first HISTORY OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 75 Surrender of the Hessians, at Trenton. 5. General Washington afterwards tooli the Hessians prisoners at Trenton, and Lord Cornwallis and his army prisoners at York/own ; and at length, after a v/ar which lasted eight years, the British armies were driven from the country. 6. This period is called the American devolution, or tlie Vv^ar of the Revolution. In that contest, Great Britain lost Jifly thousand soldiers, and spent more than four hundred milltbns of doUars. 7. On the 4th of July 1776, Congress declared the country free and independent^ under the title of United States of America. It is in remembrance of this great national event, that the 4th of July is celebrated as a holy day, or a day of rejoicing. 8. Besides the gallant patriots who fought to achieve the indepen- dence of our country. Franklin, Jefferson, Adams, Hancock, and many others, were highly distinguished for their abilities as writers, orators, and statesmen. battles fought 1 5. What did General Washington do ? C. What is this period called! 7. What was d ine on the 4th of July 177G! 8. Who distinguished themselves as .■ .atcsm(>n, &c. 76 PllIMAIlY GEOGIIAPHY. LESSON 41. HISTORY OF TIIK UNITED STATES, &c. 1. In the year 1789, General Washington was elected the first President of the United States. He performed the duties of that station for eight years, and then retired to his residence, at Mount Vernon, where, to the regret of the whole nation, he shortly afterwards died. The Washington Family. 2. This gres t man is called the Father of his country, becauso, by his skill in \ ar, he secured the Independence of the United States ; and, by the wis iom of his government, gained for his native land the respect of foreign nations. Q,uESTioNs. — 1. When was General Washington elected presi- dent ! — How long did he perform the duties of that station ! — Where did he die ? 2. What is he called ! 3. Name the pre.M- HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES, &c. 77 3. The presidents who succeeded General Washing- ton were John Ada?ns, Thomas Jefferson, James Madi- son, James Monroe, John Quincy Adams, Andrew Jack- son, Martin Van Buren, William Henry Harrison, John Tyler, and James K. Polk. 4. While James Madison was president of the United States, war was declared by Congress against Great Britain, because that na- tion captured our vessels, and impressed our seamen. 5. This second contest with the British Empire was begun in the year 1812, and lasted two years and a half: many battles were fought, and some brilliant victories gained, both by our army and navy. 6. Perry's victory, on Lake Erie ; M''Donougli's victory, on Lake Champlain ; the capture of Proctor''s army, in Canada, by Genei"al Harrison, and the victory of New Orleans, gained by General Jack- son, were the most striking events of this war. 7. Since the period of the I'evolution, the United States have become an important and powerful nation ; the States have increased from thirteen to twenty-eight and the inhabitants are five times more nu- merous than they were sixty years ago. 8. Since the year 1810, the people of Mexico, Guatimala, and all the territories of South America settled by the Spaniards, have be- come free from the control of the Spanish crown, and established Republican governments. 9. These countries were, for almost three hundred years, subject to Spain, and governed by viceroys, sent from that country. Brazil, which belonged to Portugal, has become an Empire, and is governed by an Emperor. dents that succeeded General Washington. 4. What took place while James Madison was president "! 5. When was tl is war com- menced 1 6. What were the most striking events oi this war ] 7. How have the States increased] 8. Since what t me did the people of Mexico become free from the control of the Spa.iish crown ? 9. How long were these countries subject to Spain] — What has Brazil become 1 78 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. LESSON 42. SOUTH AMERICA. 1. South America, the southern division of the Western Continent, is an extensive Peninsula^ united to Nortli America by the Isthmus of Darien. 2. It is famous for its large rivers^ high mountains^ and the abundance of its gold, silver, and diamonds. 3. The Andes is the most extensive range of moun- tains in South America. Sorato is the highest peak of the Andes. Cotopaxi is the most elevated volcano on the globe. It has had six eruptions within a century. 4. The Amazon, La Plata, Orinoco, and St. Francisco, are the chief rivers of this region. The Amazon is, next to the Mississippi, the largest river in the world, and is navigable for three thousand miles. 5. Coffee, Sugar, and the Chocolate-Nut, with Pine-apples, Bana- nas, Oranges, Lemons, and other fruits, are raised in various quar- ters. The vanilla bean, well known for its sweet odour, grows here. The Milk-tree, which produces a liquid similar to cows' milk, and the various trees from which the Indian-rubber, or gum-elastic, is obtained, abound in the warmer regions. 6. The principal beasts are, the Jaguar, or American Tiger, the Puma, Tapir, Lama, Great Ant-cater, and Sloth. Serpents are nu- merous, and some are so large as to be able to destroy and swallow deer, and other animals. Q,uESTioN9. — I. What is South America ? — By what is it united to North America'} 2. For what is it famous } 3. Which is the most extensive range of mountains? — Which is the highest peak] — The most elevated volcano T 4. Which are the chief rivers 1 5. What are raised in various quarters 1 6. Which are the principal SOUTH A3ICEICA. 79 7. The Rhea, or American Ostrich, and the Cor.dor, are the largest American birds : besides tliese there is an ahnost endless variety of smaller kinds ; Toucans, Chatterers, &c. Of the beautiful little Humming-Bird, there are near a hundred dif ferent species, of which some are hardly bigger than a humble-bee. The Rhea is taller than a man, and the wings of the Conaor are from nine to twelve feet in extent, from tip to tip. The Condor gene- rally feeds on carrion ; but, impelled by hunger, a couple of these birds have been known to attack, and destroy, a full-grown ox. 8. The inhabitants of South America comprise TVhites, Indians, and Negroes. The latter are most numerous in Brazil, where they are held as slaves. 9. The whites are chiefly descendants of the Span- iards and Portuguese, and speak the language of those nations. 10. South America includes the countries of New Grenada, /ene- zuela, Ecuador, Guiana, Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, Chili, Buenos Ayres, Paraguay, Uruguay, and the Indian territory oi Patagonia. beasts 1 7. Which are the largest birds 7 8. What do the inhabit- ants of South America comprise ? 9. What are the whites chiefly 1 10. What countries does South America include? Toucan. Humming-Bird. Chatterer. MAP OF SOUTH AMERICA, 81 LESSOxN 43. No. 9 is a Map of South America. This part of the Western Continent IS situated to the southward of North America. It is also smaller in extent South America is bounded, on tlie north, by the Caribbean Sea ; eanice. The Gulf of Venice is sometimes called the Adriatic Sea. The Archipelago is a sea that lies to the eastward of Greece : it may be seen on Map No. 11. Point out the Strait of Gibraltar. This istrait connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Mediterranean Sea. It is fifteen miles wide, and separates Europe from Africa. Point out the Arctic Circle. All that part of Europe that is situated to the sioatiiward of this circle, is in the North Temperate Zone, and th« re- iKtihder is in the North Frigid Zone. 94 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. LESSON 49. SWEDEN AND NORWAY, RUSSIA, &c. 1 . Sweden and Norway form one kingdom^ and are governed by the same king. These countries occupy part of the most northern, and coldest regions of Europe. 2. Sweden is noted for its mines of iron and copper, and Norway for its trade in fish, and in hoards, plank, and other timber, Stockholm, in Sweden, is the capital of the kingdom. Gottenburg is its chief sea-port. 3. Norway is inhabited by a hardy and courageous people, some of whom live to a great age. Many parts of this country contain very high mountains ; other parts are covered with thick forests, in \ which Bears are numerous: these are often killed in the manner shown in the picture. Norwegian killing a Bear. Questions. — 1. What do Norway and Sweden form"! — What do they occupy 1 2. For what is Sweden noted] 3. By what is LAPLAND RUSSIA. 95 4. Sweden was once an important kingdoni, and has produced some eminent men. Gustavus Adolphus, who lived about two hun- dred years ago, was the most distinguished monarch of his time. 5. Lapland is a cold, barren region, inhabited by an ignorant and rude race, called Laplanders. They are greatly attached to their own country, and think it the finest and most pleasant in the world. 6. These people have large herds of rein-deer, the milk of which forms the chief part of their food ; and of tlie skins of these animals they make their clothing. In winter, the Laplanders travel over the ice and snow in little sledges — as you will see in the engraving. Laplanders. 7. The Russian Empire is the largest in the world, though it does not contain so many inhabitants as the Chinese or British empire; they amount to GO millions. Norway inhaMted ? 4. What has Sweden produced? 5. What is Lapland 1 — To what are the Laplanders greatly attached 1 6. What have these people I 7. What is the Russian empire* B 96 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. 8. Russia in Europe, and Russia in Asia, are the chief divisions of the empire. The Russian Possessions in America are of less importance. 9. The people of Russia consist of Russia7is, Poles, Tartars, Finns, Cossacks, and other races. The Rus- sian army is larger than that of any other European na Hon. It amounts to almost six hundred thousand men. 10. Nearly all the Russians are slaves to the great lords, or noblest they work hard, and are often ill used by their masters. St. Peters- burg is the capital of the Russian empire : it is one of the finest cities in the world. It was founded by Peter the Great, in the year 1703. Retreat of th? French from Moscow. II. Moscow, the ancient capital, was set on fire in the year 1812, that it might not afford shelter to the army of Napoleon Bonaparte whose soldiers, in the retreat from Moscow, were nearly all frozen to death by the intense cold. 8. What are the chief divisions of the empire ? 9. Of what do the people consist] — What is the Russian army "J 10. What are nearly all the Russians'! — What is St. Petersburg'! 11. When was Mos- cow set on fire ? POLAND, DENMARK, HOLLAND Am) BELGIUM. 97 LESSON 50. POLAND, DENMARK, HOLLAND AND BELGIUM. 1. Poland is inhabited by the Poles, a brave and gal iant people, some of whom now live in the United States, where they are called the Polish exiles. 2. This is a very large country, and was once an independent king- dom, but it lias been conquered by the Russians, Ausiria?is, and Prussians. The largest part of its territory now belongs to Russia. Warsaw is the chief city, and was once the capital of Poland. Kosciusko and Pulaski, both distinguished officers in the American army during the war of the Revolution, were natives of Poland. 3. Denmark is a level, and moderately fertile country. The inhabitants are called Danes : they are a quiet, and industrious people. Copenhagen is the capital. 4. Iceland is an island, which is situated at a considerable distance from this country, and formes a part of the Danish dominions. It is noted for its volcano, Mount Hecla, and the Geysers, or hot springs : the latter spout up hot water to a much greater height than the highest houses. 5. Holland, the country of the Dutch, is a low and flat, but well cultivated region : many parts of it were for- merly covered by the sea. It is famous for its canals and windmills. Questions. — I. By whom is Poland inhabited'! — By what name are those called that live in the United States "? 2. What was Poland once? — By whom was it conquered? 3. What is Denmark? — What are the people called? 4. For what is Iceland noted? 5.. What is Holland? — For what is it famous? 6. What are the 7 98 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. 6. The Dutch are great smokers, and are honest, industrious, and frugal. Their orchards and gardens are kept in the neatest manner. The commerce of Holland is very great, and there are many persons engaged in fishing. 7. Amsterdarh, the chief city, is a place of great trade : the streets and houses are kept remarkably clean. A town called the Hague is the capital of Holland. Haarlem contains the largest organ in the world. This place is noted for its great trade in flowers, especially tulips. Saardan is a town of wooden houses, which are all painted green. 8, Belgium, or Flanders, is one of the most populous and best cultivated countries i?i Europe. It has long been noted for its various manufactures. 9. The people of this country are called Belgians : they resemble the Dutch, but speak the French language. There are many schools in this country, and almost every one can read and write. Brussels is the capital: Antwerp and Ghent are important cities. 10. A number of famous battles have been fought, at various times, m Belgium ; the last occurred at Waterloo, in the year 1815. In this contest, Napoleon Bonaparte, the emperor of the French, was de- feated, and many thousand soldiers were killed on both sides. LESSON 51. GREAT BRITAIlSr, ENGLAND, WALES. 1. The united Kingdom op Great Britain and Ire- land comprises England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales : these countries, with numerous colonies in various quar- ters of the earth, form the British Empire, Dutch 1 — In what are there many persons engaged 1 7. What is Amsterdam 1 — What does Haarlem contain 1 8. What is Belgium f — What are the inhabitants called 1 9. What language do the Bel- gians speak] 10. When was the battle of Waterloo fought ■] CluESTiONs. — 1. What does the United Kingdonj comprise'! — What do these countries, &c., form ? 2. For what has this kingdom GREAT BRITAIN, ENGLAND, WALES. 90 2. This kingdom has been long noted for its wealth and importance^ and the number of its ships of war. It contains, including the whole of its possessions, near one-fifth part of the human race. 3. The inhabitants consist of the English, Scotch, Welsh, and Irish. The three first are called Britons : the whole are called the British. The chief part of the people of these nations are similar, in most respects, to ourselves. Nearly all the first setlJers of the United States came from Great Britain. There the forefathers of Washington, Jefferson, Franklin, and Adams, lived and died. Coronation of Uiieen Victoria. 4. The British empire is at present governed by Queen Victoria : she was crowned in the year 1838, in Westminster Abbey, in the city of London. This ceremony, called the Coronation, was con- ducted with great pomp and splendour. been long noted ? 3. What are the inhabitants called 1 — What do they include ■? 4. By whom is the British empire now governed? 100 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. 5. England, the most southern part of the Island of Great Britain, is a beautiful and interesting region ; the land is cultivated with great care, and extensive por- tions of the country appear like a garden. 6. Vast manufactures of woollen, cotton, silk, iron, glass, <^c., are carried on. Canals and rail-roads are numerous, and steam-ships sail to almost every part of the earth. 7. In England there are many individuals who possess larg-e for- tunes. The noble and the rich have splendid houses and country- seats, elegant coaches, and a multitude of servants, while the poor live meanly, and often suffer much distress. 8. London, the capital of the British empire, is the largest and most wealthy city in the world; its trade extends to every quarter of the globe, and it is visited by numerous individuals from our own, and every other civilized country. 9. Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, Leeds, and Bristol, are important cities : Liverpool and Bristol are noted for commerce, and the others for manufactures. 10. Bath is the most elegant city in England: Cambridge and Ox- ford contain celebra ted universities, in which many distinguished men have been educated. 11. Wales joins England on the west, and is in- habited by the Welsh: these people muke great quantities of flannel, from the w^ool furnished by their numerous flocks of sheep. Iron, copper, and coal mines abound, and great quantities of railroad iron are made. 5. What is England ? 6. What are carried on? 7. What do many individuals possess ] 8. What is London"! 9. Name the important cities. 10. What is Bath? — What do Cambridge and Oxford con- tain"! 11. By whom is Wales inhabited ! — What do these people makel SCOTLAND, IRELAND, Sec. 101 LESSON 62. SCOTLAND, IRELAND, &c. Shepherdess, Highland Piper, Soldier. 1 . Scotland is situated to the northward of England, and is divided, by the Grampian Hills, m/o the High- lands and Lowlands. 2. Like the inhabitants of New England, the Scotch are religious, moral and industrious. The churches are weJl attended, schools are numerous, and the people are among the best educated in the world. Bruce and Wallace, Burns and Walter Scott, were celebrated Scotchmen : the two first gallantly defended the rights of their coun- try ; the latter distinguished themselves as poets and writers. 3. The Highlands is a rugged, hilly region: the inhabitants speak a peculiar language, and wear a dress different from that of any Questions. — 1. How is Scotland divided? 2. What are the Scotch 1 — What are the people ? 3. What is the Highlands ^ 102 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. Other nation. The Highlanders raise many sheep and cattle. The bagpipes is their favourite musical instrument. 4. The Lowlands is a level and fertile country, and more thickly settled. Edinburgh and Glasgow are the principal cities in Scot- land : Edinburgh is noted for its university, for its castle, and for Holyrood House, the ancient palace of the Scottish kings. 5. Ireland is a fine^ fertile island^ situated to the west- ward of Great Britain. The country is badly governed^ and the inhabitants are much oppressed: they often suffer for want of food. Ireland is famous for potatoes. Irish Emigrants leaving their native country for America. 6. The people of Ireland are called the Irish: numbers of them leave their native country, and come to the United States, where they form, in many places, a considerable part of the population. Dublin and Cork are the chief cities of Ireland. General Montgomery, who fell at Quebec, in the cause of American freedom, as well as many other gallant patriots who adopted our What do the Highlanders raise? 4. What is the Lowlands'! — For what is Edinburg noted 1 5. What is Ireland 1 — What is the coun- try — What are the inhabitants'? 6. What do many of the people FRANCE. country as their home, were natives of Ireland, or their descend- ants. 7. France is a great and powerful kingdom, sepa- rated from England by the Straits of Dover. The coun- try is beautiful and fertile : it is famous for its wines brandy, and silk goods. Interior of a French Caft, (Coffee-house.) 8. The inhabitants of France are called the French. They are very polite and gay in their manners. Dancing is a favourite amusement, in which all classes of the people excel. There are many learned men in this country ; but numbers of the poor can neither read nor write. France is the native land of La Fayette, and other gallant French- men, who assisted the United States, in the war of the Revolution. 9. Paris, the capital, is one of the finest cities in the world : it is much visited by strangers : many Americans are always to be found there. Lyons, Marseilles, and Bourdeaux, are important cities. do ■? 7. What is France? — For what is it famous 1 8. What is said of the French ? — What is a favourite amusement ? — Of what class are there many 1 9. What is Paris ] 104 PRIMARY CEOtiRAPHY. LESSON 53. SPAIN, PORTUGAL, AND GERMAN y. L Spain is the comitnj of the Spaniards : though now amongst the weakest, it was once the most important kingdom in Europe, and possessed vast territories in North and South America. 2. The climate is pleasant, and the soil fertile, but badly cultivated Oranges, Jigs, and grapes, gi'ow in great perfection. There are many inei-ino sheep, from which the finest wool in Europe is obtained. Madrid is the capital : Barcelona and Seville are important cities. Bull Fight. 3. Bull Jights are a favourite amusement in Spain, and are at- tended by all classes of the inhabitants. ■ In these cruel exhibitions, both men and horses are sometimes killed by the tortured and infu- riated bulls. Questions. — 1. What is Spain T 2. What grow in perfection 1 — Of what are there many? 3, What are a favourite amusement 1 PORTUGAL GERMANY. 105 4. Portugal joins Spain on the west, an(i is very like that country i?i its climate and productions. The in- habitants are called the Portuguese. 5. Both these kingdoms are bacUy governed : the greater part of the people are very poor, and much oppressed by the rich. Lisbon is t.he capital of Portugal : Lisbon wine comes from this city. Oporto Is famous for its trade in Port wine, 6. Germany is inhabited by the Germans : it is an extensive region, including Austria, Prussia, Bavaria, Hanover, and other states : these amount, altogether, to thirty-nine in number, and form the Germanic Confede- ration. 7. The Germans are composed of various nations, yet they all speak the same language. They are an industrious and ingenious people, and were the invent- ors of printing, watches, and globes. 8. Universities, schools, and learned men, are numer- ous throughout Germany, and many of the inhabitants are well educated. Music and dancing are favourite amusements of the people. There are many Germans in the United States, where they are much respected for their good morals, and industrious habits. The Barons De Kalb and Steuben, who distinguished themselves I in the American army during our revolutionary war, were both ' Germans. 4. In what respect is Portugal like Spain ? — What are the inhabit- ants called 5. In what condition are both these kingdoms'! — What is Lisbon"? 6. By what people is Germany inhabited? — What does it include ? — What do they form ? 7. Of what were the Germans the inventors 1 8. What are numerous 7 9. What is the 106 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. 9. The empire of Austria is the largest German state. The people are called Austrians, Prussia is the coun- try of the Prussians. Here every man is compelled to serve as a soldier for three years. In Prussia, all little boys and girls must go to school after they have attained a certain age : this is the law, and none are allowed to stay at home during school hours. 10. Vienna is the capital of Austria, and the largest city in Ger- many.. Berlin is the capital of Prussia. Hamburg is the chief com- mercial city of Germany: it carries on a great trade with England and the United States. ' Nuremburg is famous for child rens' toys. LESSON 54. SWITZERLAND AND ITALY. 1. Switzerland, the country of the Swiss, is a re- public, and one of the few European states that is not Avalanche in Switzerland. empire of Austria 1 — What are the people called ■? — What is Prus- sia 1 — In what capacity is every man compelled to serve f 10. What is Vienna ? — Berlin 1 — Hamburg ? Questions. — 1. What is Switzerland? — Where is it situated? SWITZERLAND AND ITALY. 107 governed by an emperor, or king : it is situated amongst the Alps, the highest mountains in Europe. 2. Vast bodies of snotv, called Avalanches, sometimes rush down the lofty sides of the Alps, and bury the towns and villages, with their inhabitants, to the depth of many feet, 3. The Swiss are an honest, brave, and industrious people. Tlie renowned William Tell was a native of Switzerland : he fought bravely against the enemies of his country. 4. Berne, Zurich, and lAicerne, are each, in their turn, for two years at a time, the capital of Switzerland. Geneva, the largest city, is remarkable for the number of watches made in it. The lake on which Geneva is situated, is one of the most celebrated in Europe. The Swiss have no language of their own : the French is spoken in various parts of the country; the German in some, and the Itajian. in others. . Italians — View in Rome. 5. Italy is the most fertile and pleasant country in Eu- rope : it is unsurpassed for the mildness of its climate, 2. What sometimes rush down the lofty sides of the Alps 1 3. What are the Swiss 1 4. What cities are each, in their turn, the capital of Switzerland 1 — For what is Geneva remarkable T 5. What is Italy ? 108 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. the grandeur of its mountains, and the beauty of hi, j 6. The inhabitants are called Italians, and are distinguished foi ' their skill in music. Many of them are amongst the finest singers in the world. The most celebrated painters, sculptors, and architects, have been natives of Italy. Painting is the art of producing beautiful pictures. The sculptor carves figures, likenesses, and ornaments, out of marble. The archi- tect builds palaces, churches, and other edifices. 7. Italy includes the kirigdom of Sardinia, the king- dom of Lomhardy and Venice, and the kingdom of Na- ples ; also the states of the Church, and some smaller j territories, 8. Rome is the most celebrated city in Italy, and has been renowned in history for more than two thousand years. This city containsf many splendid buildings ; one of these, St. Peter^s church, is the largest in the world. This vast edifice was one hundred and eleven years in building: it is near five hundred feet high, and about half a mile in circumference. The Vatican is an immense palace, consisting of a number of I different buildings, which contain, altogether, between four and five thousand rooms. 9. Naples is the largest city in Italy, and Milan the most elegant. Venice is built on seventy-two islands : here they have canals in- stead of streets, and boats in place of carriages. 10. Genoa is the birthplace of Columbus, and Florence of Americua J'espuciics. Turin is the most regularly built of all the Italian cities. 6. For what are the inhabitants distinguished'? — What have the most celebrated painters, sculptors, and architects, beenl 7. What does Italy include ? 8. What is Rome ? — Which is the largest church in the world ? 9. What is Naples 1 — What is Milan ? 10. Of whom was Genoa the birthplace 1 — Florence ? — What is Turin 1 GREECE. 109 LESSON 55. IONIAN REPUBLIC, GREECE AND TURKEY. 1. The Ionian Republic comprises several small, hut fertile islands, situated on the west coast of Greece. This little state is under the protection of Great Britain. 2. The inhabitants are chiefly Greeks and Italians: they trade in wine, oi], and currants, Zante and Corfu are the principal towns. 3. Greece is inhabited by the Greeks : they are a brave and handsome race of people, and, in ancient times, were the most civilized and learned nation in the world. 4. The Greeks were latterly subject to the Turks, for more than three hundred years; but, after fighting many battles, they have become independent, and are now governed by their own king. Battle of Navarino. Questions. — 1. What does the Ionian Republic comprise 1 2. What are the inhabitants chiefly? 3. By whom is Greece in- habited! — What were they in ancient times? 4. How long were they subject to the Turks? — What have they become? 5. When 110 PRLMARY GEOGRAPHY. 5. The battle of Navarino, fought in ihe year 1827, secured the independence of Greece. In this conflict, the allied fleet of England, France, and Russia, destroyed two hundred and fourteen vessels belonging to the Turks and Egyptians. 6. Athens, the capital of Greece, is one of the oldest cities in the world ; it was the birthplace of many of the most distinguished men of ancient times. The ruins of some of the most celebrated buildings ever erected, are still to be seen in Athens. Napoli and Missolonghi are noted towns. 7. Turkey, or the Ottoman Empire, comprises Turkey in Europe, and Turkey in Asia. The inhabit- ants are called Turks. They are Mahomedans, and differ greatly from Christians. Turkish Car — Turks, and Scenery in Turkey. 8. The Turks do not use chairs, but sit cross-legged, on cushions, or carpets : they wear turbans instead of hats, and take their food with their fingers, without knife or fork. Among these people, the was the battle of Navarino fought ? — What did that conflict secure? 6. What is Athens? — Of whom was it the birthplace] 7. What does Turkey comprise? — What are the Turks? 8. How do thej TUllKEY. Ill rich are allowed to have several wives, none of whom, according to custom, go abroad without being veiled. The poorer class have seldom more than one wife. 9. The Turks were once a powerful nation^ and were dreaded by the adjoining states ; but they are now of less importance: some very valuable territories have been lately conquered from them. 10. The Sultan, or Emperor of Turkey, wishes his subjects to adopt Christian customs avd habits. Considerable changes have already taken place in the principles of the government, and in the manners of the higher classes of the Turks. 11. Constantinople is the capital of the Turldsh empire. The houses in this city are mostly built of wood, and extensive fires some- times take place. The Mahomedan places of worship, or mosques, are numerous, and some of them are very fine buildings. The most celebrated of these, the mosque of St. Sophia, was once a Christian church. Mosque. sit 1 — What are the rich allowed to have '? 9. What were the Turks once] — What are they now 1 10. What does the Sultan wish his subjects to adopt? 11. What is Constantinople] — What sometimes takes place "! — What are Mahomedan places of worship called '? E * No. 11. — CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN EUROPE. (112) MAP. OF CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN EUROPE. 113 LESSON 56. No. 11 is a Map of Central and Southern Europe. Point out England — Scotland — Wales — Ireland. The three first occupy th© Island of Great Britain. The whole forms the united kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland. Point out Austria — Prussia — Bavaria — Hanover — Saxony — Wtr- temherg. These «re the principal states of Germany. Point out Denmark — Holland — Belgium — France — Switzerland. These, with Great Britain, the German States, and the western part of Russia, are the principal countries in Central Europe. Point out Spain — Portugal — Italy — Ionian Islands — Greece — Tur- key. These occupy Southern Europe. Point out St. Petersburg — Stockholm — CopenJiagen. These are the capitals of Russia, Sweden and Norway, and Denmark. Point out London — Liverpool — Manchester — Edinburgh [ Ed'-in- bur-ro'] — Glasgow — Dublin — Cork. These are the principal cities in Great Britain and Ireland. London is the capital. Point out Paris — Lyons — Nantes — Bordeaux — Marseilles. These are the principal cities in France. Paris is the capital. Point out Madrid — Lisbon — Barcelona — Seville — Granada — Ca- diz — Oporto. These are the principal cities in Spain and Portugal. Point out Vienna — Berlin — Hamburg — Amsterdam — Brussels — Geneva. These are the chief cities in Germany, Holland, Belgium, and Switzerland. Point out Naples — Rome — Florence — Genoa — Turin — Milan — Constantinople — Adrianople — Athens. These are the chief cities of Italy, Turkey, and Greece. Point out the Vistula — Oder — Elbe — Rhine — Loire — Douro — Tagus — Dniester [Nees'-ter"]. These are the most important of the second- rate rivers of Europe. Point out the Shetland Islands — Orkney Islands — Hebrides, or West- ern Islands. These belong to Scotland. Point out Cape Clear — St. George^s Chanael — English Channel. The narrowest part of the English Channel is called the Strait of Dover. It separates England from France. Point out Mont Blanc — Mount Etna. The first is the highest mountain in Europe. It is three miles high. Mount Etna is the most important vol- cano : it is about two miles high. 8, 114 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. LESSON 57. HISTORY OF EUROPE. 1. Europe, it is supposed, was not settled at so early a period as Asia or Africa : these two divisions con- tained powerful empires and populous cities^ while the inhabitants of Europe were still in a state of barbarism. 2. The Greeks were the earliest European people of whom we know any thing with certainty. They Jived, at first, on 7-oots, herbs, and acorns, and sheltered themselves in caves and hollow trees. 3. About 3300 years ago, a colony of Egyptians settled in Greece, who, in a short time, wrought important changes among the rude inhabitants. The latter soon began to live in towns, and to form regular governments ; and at length became a renowned and impor- tant nation. 4. The people of Greece cultivated learning, and the sciences, and acquired great skill in statuary, painting, and other arts. They founded beautiful cities, and erected splendid temples, of which some of the latter remain to the piesent day. 5. The Romans became, afterwards, the most powerful nation in the world: they extended their dominion over Greece, and many other countries in Europe, Asia, and Africa. These renowned people were, however, conquered in their turn, by the Goths, and Vandals, and oth er barbarous nations, who destroyed nearly every trace of learn- ing and refinement. 6. For several hundred years after the downfall of the Roman empire, the people of Europe were very rude and ignorant, but in Questions. — 1. What did Asia and Africa contain, while Europe Avas still in a state of barbarism ] 2. What were the Greeks 1 — On what did they Jive at first ] 3. When did the Egyptians settle in Greece ? — What did the rude inhabitants soon begin to do 1 4. What did the people of Greece cultivate 1 — In what did they acquire great skill? — What did they found and erect] 5. What did the Romans afterwards become? — By whom were they conquered? G. What HISTORY OF EUROPE. 115 time they became improved and civilized, and, with their descend- ants in other quarters, they now comprise the most enlightened and powerful nations in existence. 7. AH the nations of Europe, with the exception of the Turks, pro- fess the Christian religion : they are better educated, and enjoy a greater share of freedom, than the inhabitants of Asia or Africa. 8. To Europe the world is indebted for many of the most useful inventions ; of these, the art of printing, with the mariner^s compass, loatches, telescopes, and rail-roads, are some of the results of Euro- pean ingenuity. 9. Many distinguished men have lived in Europe in modern times : some are noted for their learning, some for the useful discoveries they have made, and others for their abilities as statesmen and warriors. 10. Among the latter was Napoleon Bonaparte, a native of Corsica : he became emperor of the French, and king of Italy, and was the greatest general and monarch of his time. Bonaparte at the head of his army. were the people of Europe after the downfall of the Roman em- pire ? — What do they now comprise 1 7. What do the nations of Europe profess 1 — What do they enjoy ? 8. What are some of the results of European ingenuity 1 9. Who have lived in Europe, &c. 3 10. What did Napoleon Bonaparte become! 11. What 116 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. 11. Bonaparte raised mighty armies, and conquered m,any nations: he was at last, however, defeated at the battle^of Waterloo, and was sent as a prisoner to the island of St. Helena, where he died in the year 1821, after a residence of six years. LESSON 58. ASIA. 1. Asia is the largest division of the earthy and con- tains more than one half of its inhabitants. It comprises many countries and nations, with extensive ranges of high mountains, and numerous rivers. 2. The nations of Asia are often called Oriental nations ; and the manners and customs of the people are called Oriental manners and customs. Oriental means eastern. 3. The principal mountains of Asia are the Himma- leh : these are the highest in the world. The others are, the Altay, Thian-chan, Caucasus, and Taurus mountains. 4. The chief rivers are the Kiang, or Yang-tse-kiang, Hoang-Ho, Obe, Lena, Yenesei, Cambodia, Irrawaddy, Ganges, Indus, and Euphrates. 5. Asia furnishes tea, sugar, coffee, indigo, pepper, cinnamon, and cotto7i, besides other useful products. Gold, and diamonds, and pre- cious stones of various kinds, are found in this quarter of the world. did he do? — Where was he sent as a prisoner? — When did he die] Q.UESTI0N9. — 1. What is Asia? — What does it contain? 2. What are the natives of Asia often called? — What does oriental mean? 3. Which are the principal mountains ? 4. Which are the principal rivers? 5. What does Asia furnish ? — What are found ? 6. Which ASIA. 117 6. The principal Asiatic animals are, elephants, both wild and tame, the rhinoceros, tiger, leopard, horse, camel, and dromedary, with an- telopes of different species. Rliinoceros. Gazelle. 7. The gazelle is a kir^d of antelope, much admired for the beauty of its eyes. The camel ar,d dromedary are animals of the same species : the former has two humps on its back, and the other has but one. Golden Pheasant. 8. The cassowary, cranes of various lands, some of which are as (all as a man, the wild pea-fowl, parrots in great variety, and the most splendid pheasants in the world, are a few of the largcest Asiatic birds. The Gold Pheasant and Silver Pheasant both inhabit China. are the principal Asiatic animals 1 7. For what is the Gazelle ad- mired 1 8. Which are the largest Asiatic birds'! 9. Of what do 118 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. 9. The people of Asia differ greatly from those of Europe and America. Many of them make no use of tables, knives, forks, or plates, at their meals : they sit on the floor, and a whole family will eat their victuals out of a large wooden bowl. 10. They sleep on mats, or carpets, and do not undress when they lie down to rest at night. Many of the inhabitants wear long beards, and shave their heads. The women are generally ignorant, and very few of them can read and write. 11. The principal countries in Asia are, Asiatic Russia, Turkey, Arabia, Persia, Tartary, India, China, and Japan. The people of Asia amount to 450 millions. LESSON 59.* ASIATIC RUSSIA, TURKEY, AND SYRIA. 1. Asiatic Russia is ^n immense territory, compris- ing the third part of Asia. It includes Siberia, Circassia, and some other countries, and extends from the Ural mountains to the Pacific Ocean. 2. Siberia occupies the most northern part of Asia : it is, for the most part, a cold and sterile region. The inhabitants are composed of Russians, with Tartars, Tungouses, and other barbarous tribes. many of the people make no usel — On what do they sit? 10. On what do they sleep 1 — What do many of the inhabitants wear 1 — What are the women generally ] 11. Name the principal countries in Asia. CluESTioNS. — 1. What does Asiatic Russia comprise? — What does it include] 2. What is Siberia? — What are the inhabitants com- * To prepare the Pupils to answer the Questions without the assistance hitherto ren- dered in the text, the use of the Italic type will be gradually discontinued in what foUows, and in a few of the closing Lessons altogether disponsed with. CIRCASSIA- — TURKEY IN ASIA. 119 3. Those persons who have displeased the emperor of Russia, or who have committed certain crimes, are exiled to this country, and are never permitted to see their friends again. 4. CiRCAssiA is a country situated on the north side of the Caucasus mountains : tiie inliabitants are called Circassians : they are a brave and handsome, but bar- bo vous people, and are always at war with Russia. Circassians selling their W^onien. 5. The women are celebrated for their beauty : many of them are sold by their parents to traders, who dispose of them to the Turks, Persians, and other nations. Some of these women become the wives of kings and princes. 6. Turkey in Asia forms a part of the Ottoman, or Turkish Empire : it is a fine fertile region, but is badly governed and cultivated. posed of? 3. Who are exiled to Siberia'! 4. Where is Circas- sia situated 1 5. For what are the women celebrated ] 6. Of what does Turkey in Asia form a parti 7. On what mountain did the F 120 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. 7. Mount Ararat, on which the ark rested, is in this country ; and here Noah and his posterity settled, after the flood. This part of Asia is inhabited by Turks, Arabs, Turcomans, Armenians, and Kurds. Noali and his Family leaving tlie Ark. 8. Smyrna, Bagdad, and Bussorah, are the principal cities. Smyrna is noted for its trade in figs, of which large quantities are brought to the United States. 9. Syria was conquered by the Turks in 1516, and has belonged to them ever since. It was renowned in ancient times ybr its commerce and riches. 10. Tyre, Baalbec, and Palmyra, were large and splendid cities, of which nothing remains but ruins. Damascus and Aleppo are now the chief cities of Syria: the fol'mer is situated in a rich and fertile district. Aleppo, in the year 1822, was nearly all destroyed bj' an earthquake ; but it has since been rebuilt. ark rest? — By whom is this part of Asia inhabited? 8. Which are the principal cities 1 — For what is Smyrna noted 1 9. Of what did Syria long form a part ? — For what was it renowned in ancient times? 10. What were Tyre, Baalbec, and Palmyra? — Which are now the chief cities ? — When was Aleppo nearly destroyed ? PALESTINE, ARABIA, PERSIA, &c. 121 LESSON 60. PALESTINE, ARABIA, PERSIA, &;c. 1. Palestine, or the Holy Land, is the most cele- brated country in the world : it was long inhabited by the Jews, and was also the residence of our Saviour Jesus Christ. 2. In this part of Asia Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, fed their flocks, and David and Solomon reigned. It was a fertile and populous ter- ritory ; but is now badly governed, and badly cultivated. 3. Jerusalem, the capital of Palestine, has been renowned for thou- sands of years : it is much inferior to what it was in ancient times. Christians, Jews, and Mahomedans, regard it as a sacred city. 4. Arabia is a dry, sandy country, poorly supplied with water. The people are called Arabs : they live partly in toivns, and partly in tents. 5. Those who live in tents inhabit the desert, and are called Be- douins [Bed'-wins] : they raise many horses and camels, and often plunder ike caravans that travel through their country. The Arabs are supposed to be descended from Ishmael, the son of Abraham and Hagar, of whom we read in the Bible. 6. Some parts of Arabia are fertile, and produce the finest coffee in the world. Muscat, Sana, and Mecca, are the princijial towns : the latter is visited every year by ma^iy thousand pilgrims. Questions. — 1. What is Palestine ? — Who resided here ? 2. Who fed their flocks 1 — Who reigned 1 3. How long has Jerusalem been renowned] — What do Christians, &c. regard it^ 4. What is Ara- bia? — How do the Arabs live 1 5. What are those who inhabit the desert called 1 — What do the Bedouins often do 1 6. What do some parts of Arabia province ? — By whom is Mecca visited every year ■? 122 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. 7. Persia, the country of the Persians, is a very ancient and famous empire : it is badly governed, and is not so flourishing and powerful as it was formerly. In the Bible we read of Cyrus, the friend of the Jews, and of Ahasue- rus, who made Esther his queen : these were both sovereigns of Persia. Persians — View of Ispahan. 8. The inhabitants are the most polite and learned of all the East - ern nations. They make handsome shawls, carpets, and various articles of silk, Teheran is the capital : Ispahan and Tabreez arc the chief towns. 9. Afghanistan [Afgan'-e-stan'] and Beloochistan [Beld-she-stan'] are situated immediately east of Persia. The people of Afghanistan are called Afghans, and those of Beloochistan Belooches : they live partly hi towns, and partly in tents. 10. Considerable portions of these countries are barren and desert : yet there are many fertile tracts, on which yJne peaches, apricots, and quinces are raised. Cabul and Kelat are the principal cities. 7. What is Persia? 8. What are the inhabitants! — What do they make ? 9. What are the people of Afghanistan called % — Of Beloo- chistan 1 10. What are considerable portions ol these countries ? — What are raised? TARTAR y, INDIA, AND HINDOOSTAN. 123 LESSON 61. TARTAEY, INDIA, AND HINDOOBTAN. 1. Tartary is an extensive region, which stretches from the Caspian Sea to the Pacific Ocean. It com- prises two great divisions, CJdnese Tartary, and Inde- pendent Tartary. The inhabitants are called Tartars. 2. Chinese Tartary includes Soongaria, Little Bucharia, Mongo- lia, and Mantchooria. Independent Tartary includes the country of the Kirguis Tribes, v;ilh Klnva [Ke'-va], Turcomania, Great Bu- charia, and Khokan [Ko'-kan]. Tlie chief cities are Bokhara, Kho- kan, and Samarcand. 3. The people of Great and Little Bucharia and Khokan inhabit cities and towns ; but nearJy all the other Tartar nations live in tents, and roam from place to place with their camels, horses, and cattle. Turcomans carrying off Persians into slavery. duESTioNs. — 1. ■\'^at does Tartary comprise "! 2. What does Chi- nese Tartary include? — What does Independent Tartary include? 3. What do the people of Great and Little Bucharia, and Khokan, in- habit ? — What do nearly all the other Tartar nations live in ? 124 rillMARY GEOGRAPIiy. 4. The Turcomans, who live on the eastern shores of the Caspian Sea, often attack and plunder the towns and villages of the Persians, nnd carry off and sell the people for slaves. 5. Many of the Tartars eat horse-flesh, and prefer it to any other : they also use a drink called koomis, which is made of mares' milk. Wild horses abound in various parts of Tartary : they are hunted by the inhabitants for food. 6. India is one of the 7nost celebrated countries in the world. It is a very extensive and fertile region. Ilin- doostan, Birmahy Siarn, mid Anam, are its chief di- | visions. Rice is the ciiief food in all these reo-ions. 'j'igor Hunting. 7. This part of Asia has been long noted for its diamonds, spices, and cotton goods. The elephant, rhinoceros, and tiger, are found here : the last-mentioned animal is the most ferocious and cruel in the world, and is often hunted and killed by men riding on elephants. 4. What do the Turcomans often dof 5. What do many of tl: Tartars eat 1 — What do they drink 1 G. What is India 1 — Name it , chief divisions. 7. For what lias this part of Asia been long noted '! — What anim.als are found here I 8. To wiiom is nearly the whole BIRMAH, &C., ClilxNA, AND JAPAN. 125 8. HiNDOosTAN is tliG couiitry of" the Hindoos : it is very populous, and contains many different states : these are nearly all subject to Great Britain, and form that division of the British Empire called British India. 9. The inhabitants are of a dark complexion, but have features similar to those of Europeans and Americans. The native princes are called Rajahs, and Nabobs : they live luxuriously, while their people often perish by thousands, for want of food. 10. The Hindoos are divided into four classes, or castes, the indi- viduals of which are not allowed to intermarry with one another, or to eat or sleep together. The missionaries have converted many of the natives to the Christian religion. 1 1. Calcutta is the capital of British India. In this city, the wealthy English inhabitants live in hovises that rival palaces in elegance and extent. Madras and Bombay are important cities. The Banyan, or Wonder Tree, grows in Hindoostan. A well- known tree of this species has upwards of three thousand depending branches, that have taken root in the ground. The Banyan Tree. of Hindoostan subject 1 9. Of what complexion are the inhabitants? — To whom are their features similar ? — What are the native princes called ] 10. How are the Hindoos divided ^ — What are they not allowed to do ? — What have the missionaries done? 11. What is Calcutta ? — What do the wealthy inhabitants live in ? 126 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHV. LESSON 62. BIRMAII, &c., CHINA, AND JAPAN. 1. BiRMAH, SiAM, Anam, and Malacca, are countries which form the eastern part of India. These are well- watered, warm, and fertile regions. 2. The inhabitants are idolaters. Almost every family in these countries, as well as in China and Japan, have images in their houses, which they worship privately. 3. The American missionaries have converted many of the Bir- mans, Karens, and other races, to the faith of the Gospel. The people of Malacca are called Malays, and are mostly pirates. Mon- chaboo is the capital of Birmah ; Bankok,of Sjam ; and Hue, of Anam. 4. The Empire of China is very extensive ; it con- tains many large cities and towns, and a greater popula- tion than any other empire in the world, 5. The inhabitants of this country are called the Chinese : they are a proud, vain people, and believe all other nations to be much inferior to themselves. The Emperor is called the So'i of Heaven. 6. In China, very small feet are thought to he the chief beauty of a woman. The poor often suffer from a want of food, and eat dogs, cats, rats, and mice, while the rich fare sumptuously. 7. Besides China Proper, the Chinese Empire comprises Thibet, Little Bucharia, Soongaria, Mongolia, Mantchooria, and Corea. Pekin is the capital of the Chinese Empire. Canton is the chief sea- port: nearly all the tea that we use comes from Canton. Questions. — 1. What do Birmah, &c. form? 2. What are the inhabitants.? 3. What have the American missionaries done? — V/hat are the people of Malacca called? — What are they mostly? 4. What does the empire of China contain? 5. What are the Chi- nese? 6. Vv'^hat is thought to be the chief beauty of the women? 7. Besides China Proper^ what does the Chinese Empire comprise'' THIBET THE EMPIllE OF JAPAN. 127 8. The Great Wall, and the Grand Canal, are noted works. The Porcelain Tower is a remarkable building. Tea is the leaf of a shrub that grows principally in this country. Porcelain Tower. Tea Plant. 9. Thibet is a cold and mountainous country, situ- ated between India and China. It is remarkable ybr heing the residence of the Grand Lama. 10. This prince is the sovereign pontiff of the Shaman religion. Though but a man, his followers believe that he is God himself, in a human form, and that he never dies. Lassa is the capital of Thibet, 11. The Empire of Japan consists of several large and populous islands, whic|^ lie eastward of China : the soil is fertile, and well cultivated. 12. Manufactures of various kinds are carried on by the Japanese. They are very jealous of other nations, and do not allow any but the people of China, Corea, and the Dutch, to trade with them. Jedo, the capital, is a very large city. 8. For what is China noted] — What is a remarkable building? — What is tea? 9. For what is Thibet remarkable 1 10. What do the followers of the Grand Lama believe him to be? 11. Of what does the Empire of Japan consist ? 12. Of whom are the inhabitants jea- lous? — Whom do they allow to trade with them ? No. 12.— MAP OF ASIA. (128) MAP OF ASIA. 129 LESSON 63. No. 12 is a Map of Asia. This division of the Eastern Continent is bounded, on the north, by the Northern Ocean ; south, by the Indian Ocean > east, by the Pacific Ocean ; and west, by Europe and Africa. Point out the Northern Ocean — Indian Ocean — Pacific Ocean — Eu- rope — Africa — North America. Point out the Black Sea — Red Sea — Arabian Sea — China Sea — Yellow Sea — Sea of Ochotsk — Caspian Sea — Sea of Aral. The two last are interior seas, and are not connected with the Ocean. Point out the Persian Gulf — Baij of Bengal — Gulf of Siam. Point out Bhering's Strait — Strait of Bahelmandel — Isthmus of Suez. The first separates Asia and North America ; the second separates Asia and Africa ; the third is the neck of land between the Mediterranean and Red Sea. Point out the Lena River — Yencsei R. — Obe R. — Irlysh R. — Volga R. — Euphrates R. — Indus R. — Ganges R. — Cambodia R. — Yang- tse-Kiang R. — Hoang-Ho R. — Amoor R. The Yangtse-Kiang is the largest river in Asia. Point out the islands of New Siberia — Laccadive P. — MaldiveP.~— Ceylon — Hainan — Formosa — Niphon — Jesso — Seghalien. The three last are the principal islands of .Tapan. Point out the peninsulas of Malacca — Corea — Kamtschalka. The peninsula of Malacca is separated from the island of Sumatra by the Strait of Malacca. Point out Mount Ararat — Ural M'^ — Altay M«« — Thian Chan M'"' — Himmaleh M<«. The last are the highest mountains in the world. Some of them are more than five miles high. The Caucasus and Taurus M"^ may be seen on Map No. 11. Point out Siberia — Circassia — Turkey — Syria — Arabia — Persia — Afghanistan — Beloochistan — Indejyendent Tartary. Point out India — Hindoostan — Birmah — Siam — Anam — Empire of Japan. The last consists entirely of Islands. Point out China — Little Bucharia — Soongaria — Mongolia — Mant- chooria — Thibet — Corea, These regions form the Chinese Empire. Point out Pekin — Jedo — Hue — Calcutta ■ — Madras — Bombay — Ban- kok — Monchaboo, and Teheran. These are the principal capitals of Asia. Point out Saigon — Cabul — Lassa — Ispahan — Bukhara — Khokan — Jerusalem — Mecca — Medin a — Muscat — Astrachan — Tobolsk — Irkoutsk — Yakoulsk. 9 130 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. LESSON 64. HISTORY OF ASIA. The history of Asia is highly interesting, and worthy of being studied: in this little book we can only mention a few of the most remarkable occurrences which have taken place in that quarter of the earth. 1. The history of Asia begins with the creation of the world. This event, which took place near six thousand years ago, is recorded in the Holy Scriptures. There we may also read the account of our first parents ; of the murder of Abel, by his brother Cain ; and of Noah, who built the ark. 2. The ark was a great ship, in which Noah and his fatmhj wers saved from the flood: this was a vast deluge of water, which covered the earth, and destroyed all living creatures, except those who were saved with Noah. The flood occurred near four thousand two hun- dred j'^ears ago. Building the Tower of Babel. (Questions. — 1. What does the history of Asia begin with ? — When did this event take place "? — Of what may we also read an account ? 2. What was the ark 1 — What was the flood 1 — When did the flood HISTORY OF ASIA. 131 3. About a hundred years after the flood, the descendants of Noah began to build the Tower of Babel, which they intended should reach to heaven ; but the Almighty put a stop to their foolish design, by confounding their language, so that they could not understand one another. 4. This circumstance caused them to scatter abroad into various parts of the earth. The children of Shem are supposed to have settled Asia ; those of Ham to have settled Africa ; and the posterity of Japheth to have settled Europe. 5. The narratives of the lives of Abraham, Isaac, and .Tacob; of Samson and his acts; of David, who killed Goliath; of Daniel, who was cast into the lions' den ; and of Nebuchadnezzar, who was con- demned, for his sins, to eat grass, are portions of the history of Asia. 6. The appearance of our Saviour Jesus Christ, eighteen hundred and forty years ago, is the most remarkahle event recordedin history. Jerusalem taken by the Romans. occur ] 3. What did the descendants of Noah begin to build, &c.1 — How did the Almighty stop their design? 4. What did this circumstance cause them to dol — What did the children of Shem settle ] — The children of Ham ? — The posterity of Japheth 1 6. What arc all portions of the history of Asia? 6. What was the appearance of our Saviour Jesus Christ 'I — Of what were the inhabitants of the earth ignorant ? — What had they become '! 132 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. At that time the inhabitants of the earth were ignorant of true reli- gion, and had become very wicked. 7. Christ taught mankind to worship God, and to love one, another. He showed them that those who do good, and act justly, will enjoy everlasting happiness in the v/orld to come ; while those who are wicked, and practise sin, will be wretched and miserable, 8. The Redeemer was constantly employed in performing acts of charity and mercy ; yet he was barbarously crucified by the Jews: they were, in consequence, driven from their own country, and their chief city, Jerusalem, was taken and destroyed by the Romans. 9. After the death of our Saviour, his disciples preached the gospel with wonderful success, and converted multitudes of sinners. Though opposed and persecuted, they established the Christian faith in various parts of the earth, and it has now become the religion of the most enlightened nations. LESSON C5. HISTORY OP ASIA— Continumd. 1. About, six hundred years after the time of Christ, the impostor -Mahomed appeared in Arabia, and established a false religion, which has been adopted by the Turks, Arabs, Persians, Tartars, and other Oriental nations. 2. Many systems of religion have had their rise in this quarter of the earth. The worshippers of Brahma, in Hindoostan ; those of Buddha, in Birmah ; of the Grand Lama, in Thibet and Tartary ; and of Fo, in China, embrace the greater part of the inhabitants of Asia. 3. The Hindoos, who worship Brahma, foolishly believe that they 7. What did Christ teach mankind 1 8. In what was the Redeemer constantly employed/! — Who crucified himl — What were they driven from"! 9. What took place after the death of our Saviour — • What did his disciples establish ■? (Questions. — 1. When did Mahomed appear — What did he establish ? 2. What have had their rise in this quarter of the earth 1 — What do the worshippers of these systems embrace? 3. In what way do the Hindoos believe they can obtain pardon for sin* HISTORY OF ASIA. 133 can only obtain the pardon of sin by the performance of various cruel practices, alilce revolting to reason and humanity. 4. Some seek death by drowning; some are crushed beneath the wheels of the great cars on which their idols are dragged about ; and others sleep on boards set full of sharp nails. Widows, also, burn themselves with the bodies of their deceased husbands. Hindoo Widow performing the Suttee, or burning liersclf with the dead Body of her ilusband. 5. The followers of Buddha are numerous in Birmah and Siam. They build spacious temples, most of which contain monstrous idols : these the people bow down to, and worship. 6. In Asia, at an early period, the Assyrian, the Babylonian, and the Persian empires, successively arose, flourished, and' decayed. In later times the Greeks, and afterwards the Romans, exercised dominion over some of the finest portions of this region. 7. About twelve hundred years ago, the Saracens, or Arabs, began their conquests, and obtained possession of many fruitful countries. They founded an extensive empire, and were, for a time, an import- ant and powerful nation. 4. How do some seek death ? — In what way are some crushed 1 - What do widows do? 5. Where are the fbllov/ers of Buddha nu- merous'? — What do they build? 6. What empires successively arose, &c. ! — What nations exercised dominion, &c. ? 7. When did the Saracens begin their conquests! 8. What did .Tenghis Khan 134 PRIMARY GEOGllArilY. 8. At a later period Jenghis Khan [Jeng'-is Kan'], a Tartar, and afterwards Tamerlane, a Turkish conqueror, commanded armies which contained hundreds of thousands of men. They subdued many nations and countries, and converted some of the finest re- gions of Asia into barren wastes. 9. The discovery of a passage to India around the Cape of Good Hope, in the year 1493, is one of the most remarkable incidents con- nected with this part of the earth, that has ever occurred. 10. In consequence of that event, the boundaries of knowledge have been enlarged ; commerce has been extended ; and civilized nations, particularly the British, have acquired great power and dominion. 11. Through the preaching of the missionaries, and the informa- tion spread abroad by printed books and newspapers, important changes are taking place among the multitudes that inhabit Asia. 12. The religion of the Saviour, and the more benevolent customs of Christian society, will, no doubt, in time, be substituted for the worship of false gods, and the cruel rites of Paganism. LESSON G6. AFRICA —BAUBARY AND EGYTT. 1. Africa is a great peninsula, which is joined to Asia by the Isthmus of Suez. It is the hottest, and the least known, division of the earth. 2. The chief ranges of mountains are the Atlas, the Kong, and the Mountains of the Moon. The principal and Tamerlane do"? — Into what did they convert some of the finest regions'? 9. When was the passage to India discovered] 10. What has been the consequence of that event"! 11. Through what means are important changes taking place 1 12. What will be substituted for the worship of false gods, &c. 1 QuESTioMs. — 1, What is Africa 1 2. Name the chief ranges of AFRICA BARBA3Y. 135 rivers are the Nile, Niger, Congo, Coanza, Orange, Zambeze, and Senegal. 3. Though a large portion of Africa is a vast desert, yet many parts of its territory are very fertile, and their products are highly valuable. The cocoanut, orange, olive, date, pine-apple, and banana, are among the principal fruits. Africa: produces gold and ivory : the latter is the substance of the tusk of the elephant. Combs, knife handles, and many other things, are made of ivory. Hippopotamus. Ostrich. 4. The elephant, lion, hippopotamus, camelopard, leopard, ante- lope, orang-outang, and monkey, beside many other animals, inhabit Africa. The African ostrich is the largest bird in the world. 5. The inhabitants are mostly of the negro, or black race. They are very ignorant, and are often at war with each other, in which those that are conquered are made slaves. 6. The principal countries of Africa are Barbary, Egypt, Nubia, Abyssinia, Senegambia, Guinea, Cape Colony, Mozambique, Zan- guebar, and Soudan. The population amounts -to 57 millions. mountains. — Name the principal rivers. 3. Mention some of the principal fruits. 4. Which are some of the chief animals 1 — Which is the largest bird in the world ■? 5. Of what race are most of the inhabitants'! 6. Name the principal countries of Africa. 7. What 136 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. 7. Barbary, the most northern part of Africa, in- cludes the independent states of Morocco, Tunis, and Tripoli, and the French Colony of Algiers, or Algeria.* 8. These countries are warm, and, for the most part, fruitful. They are badly governed, and rudely cultivated. Morocco, Algiers, Tunis, and Tripoli, are the chief cities. Natives of Barbary. Moorish Horsemen. 9. The inhabitants are principally Moors, Berbers, and Arabs. The Moors reside in the towns; they are noted for their skill in horse- manship. The Berbers inhabit the Atlas mountains. The Arabs live in tents, and possess many camels. 10. Egypt is the most celebrated country in Africa. It is watered by the river Nile, which overflows its banks every year, and renders the soil very productive. is Barbary 1 — What does it include 1 8. What are these countries. &c. 9. What are the inhabitants principally 1 — What are the Moors noted for"? — What do the Berbers inhabit 7 — In what do j the Arabs live! 10. What is Egypt 1 — What is it watered by? 1 * Cniiqiipred by the French in the yfear 18^9. ' NUBIA, SENEGAMBIA, AND GUINEA. 137 11. This country is famous for its pyramids, Sphinx, and cata- combs: the latter are tombs,' in which mummies, or the embalmed bodies of the ancient inhabitants, are still found. 12. Egypt is now independent of Turkey. Its Pacha [Pa-shaw'L or ruler, has a powerful army and navy. He has established schools and manufactories, but governs his people with great severity. Cairo is the capital ; Alexandria is the chief sea-port. LESSON 67. NUBIA, SENEGAMBIA, AND GUINEA. 1. Nubia is a dry, sandy region, situated on both sides of the river Nile. It was once a populous and important country, but is now thinly peopled. 2. The remains of splendid temples are common in Nubia. They are, for the most part, under ground, and cut out of the solid rock. New Dongola, and Kartoom, are the chief towns. 3. Abyssinia is a territory composed of rugged mountains, and fertile valleys. It now comprises the kingdoms of Amhara, Tigre, and Shou. 4. The inhabitants, though of a dark complexion, are not negroes. They are very rude and brutal in their manners. At their feasts they eat raw flesh, streaming with blood, cut from the animal while yet warm. Gondar is the largest city of Abyssinia. 5. The Sahara, or Great Desert, is a vast sandy 11. What is this country famous for] 12. What is Egypt independent of? — What has the Pacha established 1 — How does he govern his people ? Q,UESTioNs. — 1. What is Nubia? 2. What are common in this country ■? 3. What is Abyssinia composed of] 4. What are the Inhabitants'! — At their feasts, what do they eat 1 5. What is the 138 PRIMARY CnOGRAPHY. plain, containing a few fertile spots, called oases. These are scattered over its surface at great distances from each other. Fezzan is the largest oasis. A Caravan travelling across the Great Desert. 6. The desert can be crossed only by caravans: these are com- posed of traders, with horses and camels. The camels carry the merchandise; also food and water. The caravans are sometimes overwhelmed by clouds of sand, which are raised up by the winds tliat blow over the desert, 7. Sbnegambia is inhabited by the Foulahs, Jaloffs, Mandingoes, and other negro nations. 8. The English, French, and Portuguese, have some small colonies on the coast. Sierra Leone, an English colony, is the largest of these. It was established for the purpose of teaching the natives to read and write, and instructing them in the Christian religion. 9. Guinea comprises Liberia, Ashantee, Dahomey, GreatDeserf? — What does it contain] 6, How can the desert be crossed? 7. What nations inhabit Senegambia 1 — Who have settle- ments on the coast '! 8. Name the chief of these. — For what pur- pose was it established'' 9, What does Guinea comprise? — What GUINEA. : 139 Congo, and other countries. The inhabitants, hke all the native Africans, are fond of music and dancing. They play on various rude instruments. Musical Instruments of the Negroes. 10. Liberia is an American colony, settled in the year 1821, and designed as an asylum for the free coloured population of the United States. It is a fertile country, and contains about 3,500 civilized in- habitants. Monrovia, the chief town, was named after James Mon- roe, late president of the United States. 11. AsHANTEE, and Dahomey, are countries situated near Liberia, the kings of which are so cruel as to sacrifice hundreds of their sub- jects at a time to the spirits of their ancestors. 12. Congo, Angola, and Benguela, are principally under the do- minion of Portugal. The inhabitants are very ignorant and indolent. The slave trade is carried on extensively from this part of Africa. are the inhabitants fond of! 10. What is Liberia? — In what year was it settled 1 — What was it designed for 1 — Who was Monro- via named after? U. What countries are situated near Liberia? 12. Under what dominion are Congo, &c. ? 140 PRIMARY GEOGRAFHY. LESSON 68. SOUTHERN AFRICA, &c. 1. Southern Africa includes nearly all that part of Africa which lies south of the Tropic of Capricorn. The inhabitants are partly of white and partly of dark complexion. Hottentots building Huts, and loading an Ox with their Utensils. 2. This region comprises the countries inhabited by the Hottentots and the Boshuanas, with CafFraria and the Cape Colony. The last was once a Dutch, but is now a British colony. 3. Cape Town, the capital, is the largest town in Africa inhabited by Europeans. It is often visit-d by vessels going to and from the East Indies. 4. Eastern Africa contains Mozambique, Zangue- bar, and Berbora, with several other countries. Q,uESTioNs. — 1. What does Southern Africa Include? 2. What does this region comprise ] 3, Which is the largest town in Africa inhabited by Europeans? 4. What does Eastern Africa contain 1 SOUDAN AFRICAN ISLANDS. 141 5. Mozambique is governed by the Portuguese, and Zanguebarby the Arabs. Berbora is inhabited by the Somaulies, an industrious and active race. They are almost black, but are different from the negroes. 6. Soudan is a fertile and populous region, in the centre of Africa. The principal kingdoms are Bam- barra, Houssa, and Bornou. 7. The inhabitants of Houssa are called Fellatas. They are the most important people in this quarter, and have conquered several of the neighbouring countries. Soccatoo, Timbuctoo, and Sego, are the chief cities of Soudan. On the map you will find that a number of islands lie on both sides of Africa: some of these are fertile and well settled. 8. The Azores are noted for oranges; Madeira, for wine ; and the Cape Verde Islands, for salt. These all belong to Portugal. The Canary Islands are under the dominion of Spain : they are famous for wine and Canary-birds. 9. St. Helena belongs to Gi'eat Britain. Here the emperor of the French, Napoleon Bonaparte, resided as a prisoner for six years. 10. Madagascar, the largest of the African islands, is fruitful and populous. Many of the inhabitants, some years ago, embraced the Christian faith. They have been, of late, greatly persecuted. 11. Bourbon Island belongs to the French, and the Isle of France to the British : they both produce much coffee and sugar. The Sey- chelle and Almirante islands also belong to Great Britain. 12. The Comoro islands are governed by their own chiefs. Zan- zibar is noted for sugar. Socotra produces a drug called Aloes. 5. By whom is Mozambique governed? — Zanguebar'! 6. What, and where is Soudan 1 — Name the principal kingdoms. 7. What are the inhabitants of Houssa called 1 8. What are the Azores noted for .' — Madeira "? — Cape Verde Islands 1 — Under what dominion are the Canary islands 1 9. To what power does St. Helena belong 1 — Who resided there as a prisoner 1 10. What is Madagascar 1 — What did many of the inhabitants embrace? 11. To whom does Bourbon Island belong? — The Isle of France? — 12, By whom are the Comoro Islands governed? — What is Zanzibar noted for? — What does Socotra produce ? No. 13. —MAP OF AFRICA. MAP OF AFRICA. 143 LESSOiN 69. No. 13 is a Map of Africa. This division of the Eastern Continent is bounded, on the north, by the Mediterranean Sea ; east, by the Red Sea, and the Indian Ocean ; west, by the Atlantic Ocean. Point out the Mediterranean Sea — Red Sea — Indian Ocean — Atlantic Ocean. Point out the Great Desert — Desert of Challaliengali. The Great De- sert is three thousand miles long, and a thousand wide. Fezzan — Tuat — Agdas — Bilmah, and Tibesty, are the largest oases, or fertile spots, in the Great Desert. The four last are represented, on the Map, by the letters T., ^ A., B., T. Tuat lies to the westward of Fezzan. Point out the Tuaricks, and Tibboos. These are the principal tribes that inhabit the Great Desert. Point out Barbary — Egypt — Nubia — Abyssinia — Darfur — /Souj dan — Senegambia — Chiinea — Ethiopia — Cape Colony — Caffraria — Mozambique \_Mo-zam-beek''] — Zanguebar — Berbora. These are the principal countries in Africa. Point out Liberia — Sierra Leone — Ashanlee — Dahomey — Congo — Angola. Point out the River Nile — Niger R. — Congo R. — Coanza R. — Orange R. — Zambeze R. — Senegal R. — Lake Tchad — L. Maravi. Point out the Atlas Mountains — Kong M«« — Mountains of the Moon — Snow — Lupata M'^. Point out the Azore Islands — Madeira I. — Cape Verde I'. — St. Helena. These islands are situated in the Atlantic Ocean. Point out Madagascar — Bourbon I. — Isle of France — Comoro P. — Zanzibar — Almirante P. — Seychelie P. \_Sy'-shel'\ — Socotra. These are fjituated in the Indian Ocean. Point out tlie Isthmus of Suez — Strait of Gibraltar — Strait of Babel- mandel — Channel of Mozambique. Point out Cairo — Morocco — Algiers — Tunis — Tripoli. The four last are the capit <,ls of States that have the same name. Point out Neto Dongola — Kartoom — Gondar — Timbuctoo — Sego — Monrovia — St. Salvador — Cape Town. The last is the largest city in Africa inhabited by Christians. Point out the Cape of Good Hope — C. Lagullas — C. Guardafui [GaV' daf-we''] — Cape Verde. The three last are, respectively, the most southern, eastern, and western capes of Africa. G 144 PRIMARV GEOGUAPHY. LESSON 70. HISTORY OP AFllICA. 1. Africa is the least civilized of the great divisions of the earth. The chief part of its inhabitants are ignorant of books and learn- ing, and destitute of true religion. 2. This quarter of the world is supposed to have been first peopled by the descendants of Ham, the son of Noah. About three thousand seven hundred years ago, they founded the kingdom of Ethiopia. This state existed for many ages, and is spoken of in the Bible. 3. _ Ancient Egypt was, for a long period, the most renowned coun- try in the world, for knowledge and science. P^rom the account given of it by Moses, in the Scriptures, it appears to have been, in his time, a well-regulated and flourishing kingdom. 4. The Bible informs us of various circumstances which took place in Egypt ; particularly of Joseph and his brethren, and of Moses, who was hidden among the bulrushes, by the side of the river Nile. It is about three thousand three hundred years since Moses lived. Destruction of Pharaoh and his Army. Q.UEST10NS. — 1, What is Africa 1 — What are the greater part of its inhabitants'? 2. Who is supposed to have first peopled this quarter? — What kingdom was founded by them? 3. What was ancient Egypt ? 4. What does the Bible inform us took place in Egypt ? — How many years is it since Moses lived ? 5. Of what else HISTORY OF AFRICA. 145 5. The account of the departure of the Israelites from Egypt, their passage through the Red Sea, and the destruction of Pharaoh and his army by its waters, are also mentioned in the Scriptures. 6. Carthage, before the time of our Saviour, rose, by its commerce, to great wealth and power. It carried on several wars against the Romans, which, in history, are called Punic wars. The city of Car- thage was destroyed by the Romans, and has never been rebuilt. 7. Besides Carthage, Egypt, and other parts of northern Africa, were long in the possession of the Romans. Th&se countries were afterwards conquered by the Goths and Vandals, and also by the Saracens. 8. In later times, the Moors, Algerines, and Tripolitans, became notorious pirates, and were long dreaded by the neighbouring Chris- tian nations. Their power is now decayed, and they are no longer formidable. Battle of Algiers. 9. Algiers, a noted piratical state, was conquered by the French in the year 1830, when ten millions of dollars in money, many ships, and a large supply of cannon, were captured. have we an account! 6. What did Carthage rise to? — Who de- stroyed Carthage 1 7. What countries were long in the possession of the Romans? — By whom were they afterwards conquered? 8. What did the Moors, &c. become? — What is said of their power? 9. Who conquered Algiers ? — In what year ? — What was captured 7 146 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. 10. Africa, for more than three hundred years past, has furnished slaves to the people of various parts of the earth. Millions of these unhappy beings have been carried away from their country and fiiends, and doomed to laborious servitude in foreign lands. 11. Several of the inland parts of Africa have been visited by Mungo Park, Captain Clapperton, the brothers Landers, and others. 12. These travellers have given to the world some account of the inhabitants, and productions ; still, our knowledge of Africa is im- perfect, and chiefly confined to the countries on the sea coasts. LESSON 71. OCE ANJC A. 1. OcEANicA is a very extensive region. It comprises the greater part of the Pacific Ocean, with the numer- ous islands that are scattered over its surface. Malay- sia, Australasia, and Polynesia, are the chief divisions. 2. A few of these islands are large and populous : others are small, and have no inhabitants. Some of them contain lofty mountains and numerous volcanoes : the latter often cause dreadful ravages. 3. Malaysia includes the islands of Borneo, Suma- tra, Java, the Philippine, and Molucca, or Spice Islands. These produce sugar, coffee, rice, pepper, cloves, and nutmegs. Gold and diamonds abound in Borneo. 10. How long has Africa furnished slaves, &c. ? — What have they been doomed to? 11. Who have visited several of the inland parts of Africa 7 12. What have these travellers given some account of! — What is our knowledge chiefly confined to 1 Questions. — 1. What does Oceanica comprise"? — Which are its chief divisions 1 2. What are a few of those islands 1 — What do some of them contain ? 3. What does Malaysia include 1 — What da AUSTRALASIA. 147 4. Batavia, in Java, and Manilla, in the Philippine Islands, are the chief cities. Java, the Spice Islands, and parts of Sumatra and Bor- neo, belong to the Dutch. The Philippine Islands are held by the Spaniards. Manilla, the capital of the latter, is a large city. 5. The inhabitants of Malaysia and Polynesia, are chiefly of the Malay, or brown variety. Some are of a dark, and some of a light- brown complexion. Others are almost white. 6. The elephant, tiger, rhinoceros, and Malay tapir, abound in Borneo, Sumatra, and Java. The Babyroussa hog is found in Java, and the ourang-outang in Borneo. 7. Australasia comprises the islands of Australia, New Guinea, New Zealand, Van Diemen's Land, and many others. Australia is the largest island in the world. The western part is called New Holland, and the eastern New South Wales. 8. The native inhabitants of Australasia are principally Papuan, or Oriental negroes. They are of a sooty-black complexion, with woolly hair, large mouths and flat noses. The English inhabit the colonies in Australia, Van Diemen's Land, and New Zealand. these islands produce ? 4. Which are its chief cities ? 5. Of what variety chiefly are the inhabitants ? 6. What animals abound in Borneo, &c. ? — Where is the Babyroussa hog found ? — The ourang- outang? 7. What does Australasia comprise? — What are the west- ern and eastern parts of Australia called ? 8. What are the natives Malay Tapir. Babyroussa Hog. 148 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. 9, The Kangaroo is the largest animal found in Australia. It does not run, but jumps, fifty or sixty feet at a bound. The Emeu is a bird of the ostrich species. It is covered with hair, instead of fea- thers. The Platypus has a duck's bill; is covered with hair; and lays eggs. 10. The British Colony of Botany Bay was established in New South Wales, in the year 1787. Those persons who have been convicted of stealing, and other crimes, in England, are sent there, and are kept at hard labour. They are called convicts. 11. Van Diemen's Land is also a convict colony. In the Swan River and South Australian colonies, none but individuals of good character are allowed to settle. Sydney, in New South Wales, Ho- bart-town, in Van Diemen's Land, and Adelaide, in South Australia, are the chief towns* 12. The Ist^ands of New Zealand have lately become a British colony. Many English emigrants have settled in them. Tlie native inhabitants are an active and warlike race oi savages. The mission- aries have converted many of these people, and established schools amongst them. of Australia principally'? 9. Which is the largest animal? 10. In what year was Botany Bay colony established 1 — Who are sent rnere'' 11. What is Van Diemen's Land?— Where is it that indi- viduals of good character only, are allowed to settle 1 — Which are tl e chief towns? 12. What have the islands of New Zealand lately become 1 — What are the native inhabitants 1 — What have the mis- sionaries done '{ Kangaroo. Platypus. Emeu. POLYNESIA. 149 LESSON 72. POLYNESIA. 1. Polynesia is the largest division of Oceanica. It includes a great number of small islands. The Sand- wich, Society, Friendly, Caroline, and Ladrone islands, are the principal. 2. The bread-fruit, cocoa-nut, plantain, and taro-root, furnish the people with the chief part of their food. Of the bark of the paper- mulberry they make a kind of clothing, in which they dress them- selves. 3. The inhabitants of Polynesia are called South Sea Islanders. They are, in general, friendly and good-natured to those who visit them. On a number of the islands, however, the people are still very savage and cruel in their manners. Missionary preaching to the South Sea Islanders. Questions. — 1. What is Polynesia? — What islands does it in- clude 1 — Which are the principal islands "? 2. What furnish the people with the chief part of their food ? 3. What are the inhabitants of 50 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. 4. Some eat the flesh of the prisoners they take in their wais: some destroy many of their female children, and put to death num- bers of their fellow-beings as sacrifices to the idols they worship. 5. The missionaries, both American and Enghsh, within the last twenty years, have effected great changes among the South Sea Islanders. 6. The people of the Sandwich, Society, Austral, Cook's, and some other islands, now profess the Christian religion. They have been taught to read and write with facility, and to conduct themselves with much decency and propriety. 7. Honolulu, on one of the Sandwich islands, is the largest town in Polynesia, it contains about seven thousand inhabitants, of whom about a hundred are Americans and English, who are chiefly mer- chants. Books and newspapers are now printed in these islands. 8. The Ladrone and Caroline islands belong to Spain. The people of the Caroline Islands are very skilful in navigation. The Ladrone Tslands are inhabited mostly by Spaniards. -5 <« Prince Le Boo leaving his native Island. Polynesia called 1 — What are they in general 1 4. What do some eat 1 ~ Whom do they put to death ] 5. What have the missionaries effected ] 6. What do the people of the Sandwich Islands, &c. pro- fess]— What have they been taught! 7. Which is the largest town in Polynesia? 8. To what power do the Ladrone and Caro- POLYNESIA. 151 9. On one of the Pelew islands, many years ago, an English vessel was wrecked, and the mariners were kindly treated by the inhabit- ants. On the departure of the English, the king of the island sent his son. Prince Le Boo, with them, to be educated in England. He died, however, in a short time after his arrival in that country. 10. Oceanica is the latest discovered division of the earth. The Portuguese began to explore the westerr parts of this region a short time after the discovery of America by Columbus. 11. Magellan, a Portuguese navigator, in the years 1519, 1520, and 1521, made the first voyage round the world. He is, in consequence, called the first circumnavigator. 12. By this voyage it was proved that America ns separated from Asia. The great extent of the Pacific Ocean was also ascertained. Since that time, many Spanish, Dutch, French, and English navi- gators, have explored various parts of this region. 13. Captain James Cook, an Englishman, was a distinguished navigator. He made more discoveries, and told more about the people, and the different things that grow in the islands of Oceanica, than any other individual. 14. Captain Cook was killed in the year 1779, by the natives of Owhyhee, or Hawaii, one of the Sandwich islands, in attempting to recover a boat which they had stolen from him. 15. All parts of Oceanica are now better known ; and many Ameri- can whale ships, as well as those of other nations, often sail among the islands of Oceanica, and trade with the natives. line Islands belong 1 9. Who was sent to be educated in England ? 10. What is Oceanica! — When did the Portuguese begin to explore the western part of this region] 11. When did Magellan begin his first voyage round the world 1 12. What was proved by this voy- age? — What has been done since that time ? 13. Who was a dis- tinguished navigator ■? — What did hedol 14. When was Captain Cook killed? 15. What is said of Oceanica ? 152 PRIMAIIY GEOGilArHY. No. 14. — MAP OF OCEANICA. LESSON 73. No. 14 ig a Map of Oceanica. Near two-thirds of this part of the earth belong to the Western Hemisphere, and the rest to the Eastern. It is the largest division of the globe, and comprises about a third part of its surface. Only the one-fifteenth part, however, of Oceanica, is land ; the rest is water. Oceanica is situated on both sides of the Equator, and nearly midway be- tween the North and South Polos. America lies to the east, and Asia to the west. Point out, on the Map, Malaysia. This is the smallest division of Ocea- nica ; but it contains the chief part of the population. Malaysia is named ifter the Malays, who form a large proportion of the inhabitants. MAP OF OCEANICA. 153 Point out Borneo — Sumatra — Java. These are the largest islands in Malaysia, They are called the Sunda Isles. The Dutch possess the whole of Java, and also parts of Borneo and Sumatra. Point out the Philippine Islands — Celebes — Spice Islands — Timor. The Philippine Islands belong to Spain. The Spice, also called the Molucca Islands, belong to the Dutch. Point out Manilla — Batavia. These are the principal cities in Malaysia. Manilla is situated on Luzon Island, the largest of the Philippines. Point out Australasia. This division contains the chief part of the land surface of Oceanica. The land is about equal, in extent, to Europe, but the population is very small. Point out Australia — Van Diemen's Land — New Zealand — Norfolk I. — New Guinea — New Ireland — New Hebrides — New Caledonia. Australia is the largest island on the globe. The western part is called New Holland, and the eastern. New South Wales. The whole of the inhabitants of Van Diemen's Land and Norfolk Island, are of white complexion, and speak the English language. Part of the in- habitants of New South Wales, and a few in New Zealand, are also English. Point out Sydney — Hobart Town — Perth — Albany — Adelaide. The two first are the chief towns in Australasia. Point out Polynt sia. It consists entirely of islands, and is the largest division of Oceanica. It contains, however, a much less extent of land, and a smaller number of inhabitants, than Malaysia, or Australasia. Point out the Sandwich Islands — Society p. — Hervey^s A — Austral P. — Pitcairn's I. The people of all these islands profess the Christian religion. Pitcairn's Island is inhabited by the descendants of the mutineers of the English ship Bounty. They speak the English language. Point out the Pearl /«. — Navigator''s P. — Friendly P. Some of the inhabitants of these islands have been converted to Christianity. Point out the Ladrone Islands — Caroline P. — Pelew P. — Mulgrave I'. — Central Archipelago — America P. — Madison's I. The Ladrone Islands belong to the Spaniards. Point out the Washington P. — Marquesas P. — Easter I. — Magellan's Archipelago — Anson's Archipelago. The two last are the most northern islands of Oceanica, Through what islands does the equator passi — Which is the largest island of Oceanica ? — Which is the most eastern island T — The most western ] Through what large island does the Tropic of Capricorn pass ? Through what Archipelago does the Tropic of Cancer pass ? 154 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. LESSON 74. PROGRESS OF SOCIETY. The manner in which the various races of men live, the way ip which they are governed, and the religion they profess, are circum- stances of great importance. These exercise a powerful influence on the condition and happiness of nations, and are worthy of being understood by those who study Geography. 1. Mankind become improved by gradual steps. In their progress from the lower to the higher stages of , society, nations may be classed into savage, barbarous, half-civilized, civilized, and enlightened. 2. Savages are those who reside in caves, or miser- able huts, and live on the flesh of the wild animals they kill in the chase. Savage Life. — Indians hunting the Buffalo. Questions. — 1. What is said of mankind ? — How may nations be classed? 2. Who are savages? 3. What is said of this class? raOGRESS OF SOCIETV. 155 3. This class of mankind have but little clothing, and many of them go quite naked. They are ignorant of reading and writing, and are revengeful in disposition. Savage tribes are nearly always at war with one another. Some savages devour the enemies they kill in battle. 4. A considerable part of the Indians of both North and South America, the natives of Australia, New Guinea, and other parts of the earth, are savages. 5. Barbarous nations are rather more improved than those that are savage. Like them, however, they are often at war with one another, and make slaves of their prisoners. 6. Some barbarous nations live in tents, and others in small, rude huts. Some have many horses and cattle, and others possess nu- merous camels, on the milk and flesh of which they subsist. Barbarous Life. — Arab Encampment. 7. Many of these nations cultivate the ground to a limited ex- tent. They make coarse clothing, and practise a fe\y simple arts. 4. What nations are savages ■? 5. What are barbarous nations 1 6. In what do some barbarous nations \ive1 7. What do many of these nations cultivate, make, and practise 1 — What nations live in a 156 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. The Arabs of the Desert, the Wandering Tartars, CafFres, and va- rious other African nations, live in a barbarous manner. 8. The half-civilized races are the Turks, Persians, Moors, Hindoos, Chinese, Birmans, and Japanese. 9. These people i-eside in cities and towns. They cultivate the earth, and carry on certain manufactures with a considerable de- gree of skill. They are not utterly destitute of learning, but are ignorant of true religion, and treat their women as slaves. 10. The most improved races of men are the civil- ized and enlightened. These all profess the Christian religion, and are of white complexion. 11. They are much superior, in learning and tlie arts, to the other races. They practise the art of printing, and carry on agriculture, manufactures and commerce, to a great extent. 12. The principal civilized nations are the Austrians, Russians, Spaniards, Portuguese, and the people of South America. Though these nations possess many, advantages over those that are less improved, yet among them the great body of the people are but imperfectly educated. 13. The principal enlightened nations are the United States, Great Britain, France, Holland, Belgium, Switzerland, and Prussia. 14. In these states, colleges and schools are numerous, and almost "ivery person can read and write. Bible and missionary societies abound. The female sex is honoured and respected. All persons may worship God in the way they believe to be agreeable to his will. barbarous manner 1 8. Which are the half-civilized races 1 9. In what do these nations reside] — What do they cultivate, and carry on? — What is said of their learning, religion, &c. 10. Which are the most improved races of men"! 11. In what are they much supe- rior 1 12. Which are the principal civilized nations'! — In what state are the great body of the people? 13. Which are the principal en- lightened nations? 14. What are numerous? — What abound? — What is honour^.d and respected? — What may all persons do? GOVERNMENT. 157 LESSON 75. GOVERNMENT. 1. Government is the power by which the laws of a country are made and administered. By the operation of this power, when wisely directed, the good and vir- tuous are protected, and the wicked punished. 2. A free and good government tends to make a nation industrious, prosperous, and happy. Under a despotic and bad government, the people become indo- lent, degraded, and miserable. 3. There are two general forms of government in the world. Monarchy and Democracy. Birman Nobles prostrating themselves before their Sovereign. Q,uESTioNa. — 1. What is government 1 — What is the result of the operation of this power, when wisely directed 1 2. To what does a good government tend ? — Under a bad government, what will the oeople become ? 3. What are the two general forms of government 158 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. 4. The people, under a monarchy, are governed by an Emperor, or King. He remains in that station as long as he lives, whether he be a good or a bad man. 5. In some countries the sovereigns are despots and tyrants. Here tlie people, even of the highest rank, must bow their faces to the earth, and creep on their hands and knees, when they come near the throne where the king is sitting. 6. Under a Democracy, or Repubhcan government, the laws are administered by a President, who is elected by the people, for a certain number of years. 7. If the president does not act wisely, he need not be elected a se- cond time ; but another person may be chosen in his place. In the United States, none of the presidents have filled that office more than eight years. President of the United States receiving his Friends. in the world 1 4. What are the people under a monarchy governed by 1 5. In some countries, what must people, even of the highest rank^ do? 6. Under a democracy, who are the laws administered by] 7. If the president does not act wisely, what may be done' GOVERNMEiMTi 159 8. The citizens of republican governments enjoy a grt-ater share of freedom than the subjects of monarchies. In this country, when any of the people wish to see the president, they can visit him as if he were a private gentleman. Emperors and kings are often guarded by soldiers ; and no one is allowed to go near them, except with great form and ceremony. 9. The United States is the most powerful republican natior ni tiie world. Mexico and Texas, most of the South American Stau^s, and Switzerland, are also republics. In none of these States, hcv^er, are the people so free and happy as in our own country. 10. Great Britain, France, Belgium, Holland, and some otii jr king- doms, are limited monarchies. In those countries, the powe/ of the sovereigns is limited, and no one can be punished except by due process of law. 11. In Persia, Birmah, Siam, and China, the sovereigns a. e abso- lute, and have entire control over the property and lives cf their people. 12. Emperors and Kings are often indifferent to the wt fare of their subjects. Some few, however, have endeavoured to improve their condition, and govern wisely. 13. Alfred the Great, king of England, and Peter the Great, t !;vening, he sets in the west. 4. The moon and stars also rise in the east, and set in the west. The moon, besides constantly changing her place in the heavens, exhibits a difference of appearance at different times. Though the stars appear nearly alike, they are of different magnitudes, and of different degrees of brightness. 5 The sun, moon, and stars, are called the heavenly, or celestial bodies. Most of them seem to be mere specks in the sky. They are, however, very large, and are believed to be great worlds, like our own. 6. The immense distances at which the celestial bodies are place.! from us, is the reason why they appear so small. If it were possible for us to go near them, we should, no doubt, find that they contain land and water, and are fitted for the habitation of rational and in- telligent beings. QofesTioNs. — 1. What is astronomy? — Of what do the heavens consist? 2. What do we see in the sky ? — What gives light by day ? — What by night ? 3. What do these bodies seem to be? 4. What do they do? — What docs tlie moon exhibit? — What is said of the stars? 5. What are the sun, moon, and stars, called? — What are they believed to be? 6. Why do the celestial bodies 164 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. 7. The magnitudes, motions, distances, periods, and order, of the heavenly bodies, are the principal subjects that form the science of Astronomy. 8. The magnitude of a heavenly body is its size. The motion means the way in which it moves, or revolves. The periods signify the space of time that is occupied by the heavenly bodies in perform- ing their yearly and daily revolutions. The order of the planets is their system of arrangement in a regular series, as first, second, &,c. 9. The celestial bodies may be divided, according to their nature, into luminous and opaque [o-pa'ke]. 10. Luminous, or shining bodies, are such as give light of them- selves: the sun is a luminous body. Opaque, or dark bodies, are such as do not give light of themselves. They can be seen only by light from some luminous body shining on them. The earth is an opaque body. LESSON 78. SOLAR SYSTEM. 1. The earth is situated in that part of the universe called the Solar System. This system, or order, consists of the sun, moon, planets, and comets. It is called solar, from the sun. What belongs to the sun, is termed solar. 2. The sun is the centre of the Solar System. It gives light to the world, and is the source of heat. It causes the earth to bring forth grass ; the herb to yield seed ; and the fruit-tree to yield fruit after Its kind. 3. If the sun were taken away, we should have no light, except appear so small ? 7. What are the principal subjects that form the science of astronomy ? 8. What is the magnitude of a heavenly body ? — What does the motion mean ? — What do the periods sig-nify ? — What is the order of the planets ? 9. How may the celestial bodies be divided ? 10. What are luminous, or shining bodies? — What are opaque, or dark bodies ? — How can they be seen ? QiiESTioNS. — Where is the earth situated? — What does this system consist of? — From what is it called solar ? 2. What is the sun ? — What does it cause the earth to bring forth ? 3. What would be the consequence, if the sun were taken ASTRONOMY. 165 the faint glimmering of the stars. There would be no day. The ground would be all the time covered with ice and snow. No plant or tree would flourish. Mankind would perish for want of food. 4. But God has placed the sun in the heavens to give light and heat, not oniy to this world, but also to a number of other worlds. In the beginning He caused the light to shine out of darkness, and said, " Let there be light ; and there was light." 5. In former times, it was supposed that the sun was a great ball of fire. Many learned men, however, are of opinion, that it is a world like our own, containing continents, oceans, mountains, and plains. 6. It is supposed that the rays of light which illumine the Solar System, proceed from an atmosphere, or air, of a peculiar nature, that surrounds the sun. The rays of the sun are called solar rays. 7. When mingled with the atmosphere on the surface of the globe, it is thought that these rays produce the warmth and animation which render the earth habitable. 8. This appears probable, from the fact that the summits of high mountains are always covered with ice and snow, while at their base, and in the valleys, the heat is oppressive. If heat proceeded from the sun, as from a body of fire, the higher we ascend from the sur- face of the earth, the greater the heat would become. 9. The sun is an immense mass of matter. It is believed to be, at least, fourteen hundred thousand times larger than our globe. Its distance from us is so great, that it would take a cannon-ball, which moves through the air at the rate of five hundred miles an hour, about twenty-two years to reach the sun. 10. The sun appears, to our naked sight, to be perfectly flat and smooth ; but, from the dark moving spots frequently seen on its sur- face, it is rendered almost certain that it is a spherical body, and that it turns round once every twenty-five days. away ? 4. For what purpose has God placed the sun in the heavens ? 5. What was formerly thought ? — What is the opinion of many learned men ? 6. What is it supposed the rays of light proceed from ? 7. What is it thought these rays produce ? 8. From what fact does this appear probable ? — If heat proceeded from the sun, as from a body of fire, what would be the effect? 9. What is the sun ? — How large is it believed to be ? — How long would it take a cannon-ball to reach the sun ? 10. How docs the sun appear, to our naked sight 7 — • What is i' ks^-jwn to be ? 166 PIliMART GEOGRAPHY. LESSON 79. OP THE MOON. 1. Next to the sun, the moon is the largest and most familiar ob- ject that we see in the sky. It is the nearest to the earth of all the heavenly bodies. Though the moon appears almost as large as the sun, it is many million times smaller. 2. The moon is an opaque, or dark body, and, like the other planets, nas no light of its own: it shines by light that it receives from the sun. Though less splendid than that luminary, the moon is a highly interesting and beautiful object. 3. The moon goes round the earth, from west to east, once in twenty-nine and a half days. It has always the same side, or face, turned towards us. 4. Nearly ail the heavenly bodies present the same appearance ; out the moon is ©onstantly changing. Sometimes it is not seen at all ; sometimes only a small edge is bright ; sometimes one half ; and, at other times, the whole surface is luminous, or shining. 5* These different forms are called the phases, or changes of the moon. They are the new, the naif, the gibbous, the full, and the old moon. The engraving will show how the phases appear. New. Half. Gibbous. Full. Gibbous. Half. Old. 6. At the change of the moon, that body is dark, and we see no- QuESTioNS. — 1. Next to the sun, which is the largest object we see in the sky '? 2. What is the moon ? — What does it shine by ? 3. How does the moon g-o round the earth ? — What has it always ? 4. What do nearly all the heavenly bodies present ? — What is said of the moon ? 5. What are these changes called ? Wliat are they ' 6. Ho^ does the new moon appear 7 — How are the horns ASTBONOxMY. 167 thing of it ; soon afterwards the new moon appears in the form of a crescent, or sickle without a handle, in the western sky, just above the sun, when he is setting. The horns, or sharp points of the new moon, are turned to tlie left hand. 7. In three or four days more it becomes a half moon ; it then gradually assumes the gibbous form, and, in two weeks from the change, the moon becomes full. It has now completed one half of its monthly journey. 8. The full moon is round and bright, like the sun, but does not dazzle the sight to look at it. It rises in the east, when the sun sets, and sets in the west, when he rises. It shines all night. 9. The full moon rises later and later every night, and, in a short time, assumes the gibbous form. At three weeks after the first change it becomes once more a half moon; then crescent-shaped, or horned. In this state it is called the old moon, 10. The new moon rises in the evening, and the old in the morn- ing. The horns of the old moon are turned towards the right hand. Finally, at four weeks after her first change, the bright side of the moon is turned from us, and she is no longer seen, until the new moon appears again. 11. Thus the moon is constantly performing her stated monthly journeys round the earth, and cheering the inhabitants with her mild radiance, while at the same time she exhibits her wonderful changes, and furnishes one of the most striking displays of divine power and wisdom. 12. Prayers and sacrifices were'^ofFered to the moon by many of the ancient heathen nations, and some of the people of China now worship that planet. The Jews observed the time of new moon, as a period of feasting and rejoicing. They reckoned time by the moon. Tlie American Indians also practise the same method. of the new moon turned ? 7. In three or four days more, what does it become ? — What does it then graduallj' assume ? — What takes place in two weeks from the cliange? 8. What is said of the full moon? — Where does it rise, «Si>c. ? 9. When does the full moon rise? — In a short time, what does it assume ? — What does it become, in three weeks after the first change, &c. ? 10. How are the horns of the old moon turned? — What takes place at four weeks after the first change? 11. What is the moon constantly performing? — What does she exhibit ? 12. What were offered to the mocn ? — What is .said of the people of China ? — The Jews ? — American Indians ? H 168 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. LESSON 80. PLANETS. 1. There are two kinds of stars to be seen in the heavens;— the planets and the fixed stars. The first are called moving, or wander- ing stars, because they alter their positions in the sky. 2. The planets are opaque bodies, and have no light of their own, but shine by reflecting the light of the sun, around v/'hich they move, or revolve. Some of them are many hundred times larger than the earth ; but others are of less size. Comparative size of the Planets. This picture shows that the earth is much smaller than Jupiter, Saturn, and Uranus. The planets Venus, Mars, Mercury, and the Moon, are still smaller. 3. The planets all appear to be spherical bodies ; that is, they are round, like a ball, or an apple. Each of them, by turning constantly on its own axis, has a regular succession of day and night. 4. The varied appearance which the surface of the planets presents, when examined by powerful telescopes, shows that some parts are high, and some are low; some are bright, and others are dark. The bright parts are supposed to be land, and the dark parts water. Questions. — 1. How many, and what kinds of stars are there in the heavens ? — What do they form a part of? 2. What arc the planets ? — How do they shine ? — What are some of the planets ? 3. How do the planets appear ? 4. What aie the bright and dark parts of the planets supposed to be? 5, How THE PLANETS. 160 5. The planets are twenty-nine in number. They are divided into two classes. The first class embraces what are called primary planets, because they revolve immediately around the sun. 6. The other class comprises the secondary planets, moons, or satellites. They revolve immediately around their respective prima- ries, and go around the sun in company with those bodies. 7. The satellites are much smaller than the planets around which they move. They give light to those bodies in the same manner that the moon enlightens the parts of the earth that are turned from the sun. The satellites present the same changes, or phases, that we see in the moon. 8. The primary planets are eleven in number. Their names are, Mercury, Venus, the Earth, Mars, Vesta, Juno, Ceres, Pallas, Jupi- ter, Saturn, and Uranus. 9. The secondary planets, or moons, are eighteen in number. Of these the earth has one moon, Jupiter four, Saturn seven, and Ura- nus six. 10. Five of the primary planets, viz. Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupi- ter, and Saturn, were known to the ancients before the birth of our Saviour. The other five have been discovered by modern astrono- mers, within the last fifty or sixty years. 11. The planets perform their revolutions around the sun in differ- ent periods of time, and at different distances. Those planets near the sun, perform their revolutions in less time than those that are farther off, because they move faster, and have less distance to go. LESSON 81. THE PLANETS. 1. Mercury is the planet nearest to the sun. It is the most rapid in its motion of any of the planets, and is much smaller than the earth. many planets are there ? — What is the first class called ? 6. What does the other class cojnprivse ? 7. What are the satellites — How do they give light? — What do the satellites present ? 8. How many primary planets are there ? — Which arc they ? 9. How many secondary planets are there ? 10. Which five of the pri- mary planets were known to the ancients before the birth of our Saviour ? 11. How do the planets perform their revolutions round the sun ? — Why do the planets near the sun perTorm their revolutions in less time than those that are farther off? Questions. — 1. What is Mercury? — What ia said of the motion, &c. ot 170 PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY. 2. Venus is the second planet from the sun. It is about twice as far off as Mercury, and is ahTiost the size of the earth. Venus is the most beautiful star we see in the heavens. It appears larger to us than any of the other planets, because it is nearer. 3. This beautiful planet is seen for a considerable part of the year in the western sky, just after sun-set. It is then called the Evening- Star. For the rest of the year it may be seen in the east, immediately before sun-rise, and is then called the Morning-Star. 4. The earth is a planet, like Mercury, or Venus. It is a very large body; yet, it is believed, if we could see it from the planet Jupiter, which is placed about four hundred millions of miles from us, it would appear like one of the smallest stars in the sky. 5. The earth is the third planet, in order, from the sun. It moves, or revolves, from west to east round that luminary, once a year, at the distance of ninety-five millions of miles. 6. It revolves in its orbit at the rate of sixty-eight thousand miles an hour ; which is more than one thousand miles in a minute. Though one hundred and thirty-six times swifter than that of a can- non-ball, the motion of the earth is not much more than half as fast as that of the planet Mercury. 7. The movement of the earth round the sun, is called the annual, or yearly revolution. It produces a change of seasons, and also the difference that takes place in the lengths of the days and nights. 8. The earth likewise turns, or revolves on its axis, from west to east, once every twenty-four hours. This is called the daily motion. It makes the sun, moon, and stars, appear to move from east to west over our heads. In this way, also, the different countries in the world have each their succession of day and night. 9. Though the earth is impelled at so swift a rate, we do not feel the motion, because the people, and every thing on the surface of the earth, move with it. If we were travelling rapidly in a steam-boat, in Mercury? 2. Which is the second planet from the sun? — What is Venus? 3. What is Venus called, for a considerable part of the year ? — What is it called the rest of the year ? 4. What is the earth on which wo live ? — How would the earth appear, if we could see it from Jupiter? 5. What is the earth? 6. At what rr £ does it revolve ? 7. What is the movement of the earth round the sun called ? — What does it produce ? 8. Besides its yearly motion, how does the earth mso revolve? — What is this revolution called? 9. Why do we not feci THE PLANETS AND COMETS. 171 smooth water, the houses and trees on the shore would appear to go from us, while the steam-boat would seem to stand still. 10. The moon is a satellite, or secondary planet. It accompanies the earth in her journey round the sun, moving at the rate of twenty- three hundred miles every hour. The diameter of the moon is twenty-two hundred miles ; and her distance from the earth two hun- dred and forty thousand miles. 11. In the revolution which that body makes round the earth, it sometimes happens that the moon comes directly between the earth and the sun. This produces what is called an eclipse. 12. In an eclipse of the moon, that planet is darkened, for a short time, to the people that live on the earth. In an eclipse of the sun, the latter is also darkened. When that event takes place, the moon comes directly between the earth and the sun. LESSON 82. THK PLANETS AND COMETS. 1. Mars is the fourth planet from the sun. It may be seen with the naked eye, and is of a deep red colour. This planet is about one-seventh the size of the earth. 2. Vesta, Juno, Ceres, Pallas, and Astraea, are five planets that re- volve near each other, some distance beyond Mars. They are called Asteroids, or little stars, and were the last discovered of the planets. Astraea was discovered in December, 1845, its precise distance from the sun, and position, are not yet known. 3. Jupiter revolves beyond the Asteroids. It is the largest of the planets, being 1,300 times larger than the earth, and is five times farther from the sun. This planet is attended by four satellites. the motion of the earth ? 10. What is the moon ? — What is its diameter, «&c. ? 11. What sometimes happens? — What does this produce? 12. In an eclip§^ of the moon, what takes place ? — In an eclipse of the sun, what takes place ?^P^ Questions. — 1. What is Mars ? — How may it be seen ? — How will it compare with the earth ? 2. What are Vesta, Juno, Ceres, Pallas, and Astrsea ? — What are they called ? 3. What is said of Jupiter ? — What attend thir planet ? 4. 172 PRIMAIIY GEOGRArHY. 4. Jupiter is the largest star we see in the heavens, except Venus. It is of a deep yellow colour. Through a telescope, the body of this planet appears to be striped, or banded, with light and dark streaks. 5. Saturn is one of the largest of the planets. It is a thousand times larger than the earth, and is nine times farther from the sun Saturn is attended by seven satellites, and is surrounded by two immense rings, which are entirely detached from the body of the planet. 6. Uranus is nineteen times farther from the sun than the earth. It is the most distant planet in the solar system, and has six moons. 7. The sky, when viewed through telescopes that enlarge objects five hundred or a thousand times beyond their apparent size, presents a much more splendid sight than when observed with the naked eye. The aspect of the heavens, as seen from some of the planets, is doubt- less grand and imposing beyond any thing of which we have a conception. 8. The rings of Saturn must appear, after dark, to the inhabitants Appearance, at night, of the Rings and Satellites of Saturn, to the Inhabitants of that Flanet. What is Jupiter? — How does this planet appear, when viewed through a tele- scope ? 5. What is Saturn ? — By what is Saturn attended, «fec. ? 6. What is said of Uranus ? 7. What docs tlic sky present, when viewed through telescopes, ader. Part First. Primary S. Reader, Part Second, Primary Schf , i aii i iiird. The Grammar School Reaan. and the District School Reader. OUTLINE SERIES, issued in I. ? direction of theCommittee of Qev^ir.. Literature and Education, of the Si. 'PS rhnstiar! Vnoivlpdi^e, and adapted to this country by an eminent literary gt OUTLINES OP THE HISTORY OF ...i., mmerouB Cuts and Questions, for the use of Schools. OUTLINES OF GRECIAN HISTOP t; ReV. B. Jiuu t, vrith Maps, Views, and ftuestioiis. OUTLINES OP ROMAN HISTORY, vith nnmt OUTLINES OF AMERICAN HI?Tr „,= Knir Rxamination of Pup'Ia. oT cv PHILOSOPHY, 1., X... OF ASTRONOMY, by C. List. UL i LlMKa OF MINERALOGY, by C. List, Ksq. OUTLINES OF BOTANY, by C. List, Esq. X^HOMA^, COWPERTHWAIT ik, ^O.