The Natural History Conspectus was a 72-volume non-fiction book series written by Henry Travis about his 35-year trip around Africa, detailing plants, animals and the peoples of Africa along with their culture. His series was discredited by scientists - It is believed a rumour circulated by Travis' older brother was spread to keep people from taking advantage of the guide to make money - under the belief that he used "creative licensing" and fabricated some of the events detailed. Travis died two years later after a period of depression caused by his books' failure.