Friedrich Paul Graetz | |
|---|---|
.jpg) Paul Graetz in 1909 | |
| Born | July 25, 1875 |
| Died | February 16, 1968 (aged 92) |
| Nationality | German |
| Occupation | military officer |
| Years active | 1907-1911 |
| Known for | first person to cross Africa by automobile |
Friedrich Paul Graetz was a German officer and adventurer best known for being the first person to cross Africa in an automobile.
Biography
Graetz was born in Zittau, Saxony on 25 July 1875. He joined the German Army and became an officer in 1895. He served as a lieutenant in German-controlled East Africa starting in 1902. He was involved in road-building efforts in the region and witnessed how difficult it was for human porters to transport heavy materials. He reached the conclusion that goods should be transported by motor vehicle instead of by human porters. When he made this suggestion to the German governor of the region, the governor dismissed Graetz' plan as impractical due to the lack of any infrastructure for motor transport in the region. Graetz devised a plan to demonstrate that it is possible to traverse the region by motor vehicle. He planned to cross Africa from east to west by car. Graetz ordered a modified car for the trip from Germany and made careful preparations for the journey.