Improved Living Conditions for Whites on the Island by 1870

By 1870, the living conditions for whites on the island of Fernando Pó significantly improved due to strategic recommendations for relocation to the highlands. This shift was crucial as it allowed for better health outcomes and increased survival rates among the European population. By 1884, the administrative framework and key plantations had largely transitioned to Basile, situated several hundred meters above sea level, further enhancing the prospects for those residing there. Notably, explorer Henry Morton Stanley famously referred to Fernando Pó as 'a jewel which Spain did not polish,' highlighting the missed opportunities for development and governance on the island. Despite these advancements, the experiences of individuals like Mary Kingsley, who visited the island during this period, revealed ongoing challenges and complexities in the region. Kingsley's observations provided a nuanced perspective on the interplay between colonial ambitions and the realities faced by both the indigenous population and European settlers. The improvements in prognosis for whites on the island marked a significant turning point in the colonial narrative of Fernando Pó, reflecting broader themes of adaptation and resilience in the face of environmental and social challenges. #mooflife #mof #MomentOfLife #FernandoPó #Highlands #ColonialHistory #EuropeanSettlers #MaryKingsley