The exploration of Africa began in ancient times, with early travelers like Hanno the Navigator and Herodotus documenting their journeys. European exploration intensified in the 15th century, driven by the desire for trade routes and resources. Explorers such as David Livingstone and Henry Morton Stanley ventured into the continent's interior, mapping uncharted territories and establishing contact with various cultures. During the 19th century, the "Scramble for Africa" led to increased European colonization, as nations sought to claim land and resources. This period saw significant exploration efforts, including the work of Richard Francis Burton and John Hanning Speke, who sought the source of the Nile River. Their findings contributed to a greater understanding of Africa's geography and peoples.