Ein Ferien-Ausflug um die Erde : seinen lieben Verwandten und Freunden gewidmet von C. Ritzhaupt 1894

This is the title page of "Ein Ferien-Ausflug um die Erde," or "A Holiday Trip Around the World," printed in Leipzig in 1894. Its author, C. Ritzhaupt, dedicated this book to his dear relatives and friends. The late 19th century saw the rise of mass media and a surge in travel writing. This book cover gives us a glimpse into the culture of leisure and the growing fascination with the wider world during the period of the German Empire. The promise of a journey around the world, even a vicarious one, speaks to the increasing opportunities and desires for exploration among the middle classes. Understanding this book requires considering the historical context of its production. What role did travel play in shaping German national identity? How did technological advancements influence perceptions of distance and cultural difference? These are the questions we, as historians, might ask. By examining travelogues, advertisements, and other period documents, we can begin to understand the social and cultural significance of this seemingly simple book cover.