A Brief History of the Pacific: The Great Ocean

This book provides a concise history of the Pacific Ocean, examining the indigenous presence, Western control, and the interactions of Japan, California, Peru, Australia, and other territories with the ocean. It covers the period from the 1530s to 1890, focusing on the Spanish takeover, European voyages, and the growth of Western influence. The book also explores the Maori wars, Christian missionary activity, and the struggle of empires in the Pacific. It concludes with a look at the Pacific's future, including economic, political, and cultural pressures, as well as tourism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 07 September 2023
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

This captivating and concise account of the Pacific Ocean delves into the intricate tapestry of indigenous presence on its islands, as well as the profound influence and control exerted by Western powers over its shores. Spanning from the 1530s to 1890, this period witnessed a significant increase in Western coastal and oceanic presence in the Pacific, marked by the Spanish takeover of the coasts of modern Central America, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. This expansion continued with the Spanish presence in the Philippines.

Moreover, the narrative emphasizes the diverse physical and human environments of the four quadrants of the Pacific, encompassing the north-east, north-west, south-east, and south-west, as well as the coastal islands such as the Aleutians, Japan, and New Zealand, and the continental coastlines. The central focus of the book remains on the intricate interactions between Japan, California, Peru, Australia, and other territories with the ocean, particularly in the realms of trade, migration, and fishing.

In the initial chapters, Black delves into the geology, currents, winds, and physical characteristics of the Pacific, providing a foundational understanding of the region. He then proceeds to explore the indigenous inhabitants of the Pacific up to 1520, shedding light on their history, settlement patterns, navigation methods, and religious practices. This historical backdrop sets the stage for the subsequent chapters, which focus on the European voyages that marked the Pacific's history.

From Magellan's pioneering expedition to Cook's remarkable discoveries and Tasman's pioneering exploration, Black meticulously examines the challenges and triumphs faced by these explorers. The sheer magnitude of the ocean posed a significant obstacle, yet their voyages had a profound impact on the local populations, particularly the Russians in the Aleutian Islands.

As the period progressed, the influence of Western powers outside the region expanded. From 1788 to 1898, the British laid claim to Australia and America, while the Phillipines became a colony of the Spanish Empire. The arrival of steamships further accelerated the Western economic and political impact, leading to sandalwood and gold rushes and the establishment of new territories.

The territorial claims spread through various agreements, such as the Willis, Perry, and the Ameri, further shaping the geopolitical landscape of the Pacific. These agreements marked the culmination of centuries of exploration, trade, and conflict, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to shape the region today.

In conclusion, this comprehensive history of the Pacific Ocean offers a rich and detailed account of the region's past. It explores the interplay between indigenous cultures, Western influence, and the physical and human landscapes of the Pacific, providing a comprehensive understanding of the complex tapestry that defines this vast and influential ocean.

Weight: 216g
Dimension: 126 x 197 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472146731