1858-1895

Scottish explorer who conducted several expeditions into Africa, adding greatly to the general knowledge of African geography. A geologist by training, Thomson joined the Royal Geographical Society's African expedition, which left England in 1878. He took command of the expedition when the leader died. During this and a subsequent journey, he became the first European to see Lake Baringo and Mount Elgon. He also explored along the Upper Congo River and the Sokoto region in Nigeria.