Across South America: An account of a journey from Buenos Aires to Lima by way of Potosí, with notes on Brazil, Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and Peru

"Across South America" by Hiram Bingham is a travelogue written in the early 20th century. The text follows Bingham's journey as he travels from Buenos Aires to Lima, passing through significant areas such as Potosí and Sucre while exploring the cultures, histories, and economies of Brazil, Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and Peru. The narrative promises rich descriptions of the landscapes and peoples encountered, as well as historical insights into the regions' pasts. At the start of the journey, Bingham details his departure from New York and his experiences traveling through South America, specifically highlighting cities like Pernambuco and Bahia. He describes the unique characteristics of each location, including the diverse populations, the role of different ethnic groups, and the economic activities that define them. The opening sets the tone for a vivid exploration of cultural interactions and the historical significance of the regions traversed, conveying Bingham's goal of gathering information for further understanding of South America's societal complexities.