Dreamers of Empire

<p><em>Dreamers of Empire</em> presents the captivating biographies of some of the British Empire's most daring adventurers and empire-builders. This volume explores the lives of men such as Cecil John Rhodes a visionary and controversial figure in South African colonization; Richard Francis Burton the famed explorer and translator of <em>The Arabian Nights</em>; and John Nicholson and Henry Montgomery Lawrence key military figures in British India. It also includes the tales of William Walker a soldier of fortune and Charles George Gordon whose tragic fate in Khartoum became legendary. Each biography delves into the ambitions exploits and lasting legacies of these extraordinary individuals.</p><p>Achmed Abdullah (1881-1945) born Alexander Nicholayevitch Romanoff was a Russian-born writer of exotic adventure tales often set in the Middle East Asia and other far-flung locales. Of mixed heritage Abdullah's life and identity were shrouded in mystery contributing to the allure of his works. His stories such as <em>The Thief of Bagdad</em> and <em>The Cat's Paw</em> frequently explored themes of espionage mysticism and adventure blending elements of romance and intrigue. He was a popular author in pulp magazines and screenwriting with his tales being adapted into successful Hollywood films. Abdullah's writing style was noted for its vivid descriptions and action-packed plots.</p>