Reise nach Innerarabien, Kurdistan und Armenien

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Georg Jacob praised Baron Eduard Nolde (1849–1895) in his work “Altarabisches Beduinenleben” for his contributions as a travel writer, noting that Nolde was the first since Burckhardt to clearly articulate the political conditions in Central Arabia. He observed with an independent perspective and the precision of an officer, avoiding the uncritical narratives often found in the accounts of other expatriates. Nolde demonstrated a keen understanding of animal life, providing expert descriptions of horses and camels. His adventurous background equipped him well for his writing; he served as a lieutenant during the Carlist revolt in Spain and later in conflicts between Chileans and Peruvians in South America. After leaving official service, he devoted himself to travel, culminating in his 1893 journey to Central Arabia, which reflects a profound sensitivity to foreign cultures. His insightful analyses of Middle Eastern political dynamics continue to resonate today. Notably, Karl May later drew upon Nolde's travel accounts for his own depictions of desert travelers.