Pacific Exploration: Voyages of Discovery from Captain Cook's Endeavour to the Beagle

Captain Cook is widely recognized as the first great European scientific explorer, but the achievements of those who followed him in voyages of science and exploration into the Pacific have been neglected. Pacific Exploration explores the European voyages that continued Cook's work, charting and exploiting the Pacific, and Britain's rise as the world's leading maritime power. It recounts and illustrates these achievements and legacies using fascinating text, illustrations, and artworks from the period.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 06 September 2018
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Captain Cook, widely regarded as the pioneering European scientific explorer, embarked on a remarkable voyage of exploration to the Pacific in 1768 aboard the HM bark Endeavour. Spanning nearly three years, this epic journey covered thousands of miles of uncharted lands and seas, including New Zealand, the east coast of Australia, and numerous Pacific islands. Cook's exceptional skills as a navigator, seaman, and leader were put to the test as he navigated through treacherous waters and encountered diverse cultures and ecosystems.

What sets Cook's voyages apart is the inclusion of civilian scientists, notably Sir Joseph Banks, who brought back invaluable insights into the mysterious and exotic lands, peoples, flora, and fauna of the Pacific. These voyages were among the first to reveal these previously unseen wonders to European eyes, sparking a fascination and curiosity that would endure for generations.

While Cook's achievements in 18th-century Pacific exploration are undeniably significant, it is important to recognize the contributions of those who followed him on numerous voyages of science and exploration into the Pacific. Pacific Exploration delves into the European voyages that continued Cook's work, not only in charting but also in exploring and exploiting the Pacific. These voyages, undertaken by notable figures such as William Bligh, George Vancouver, Matthew Flinders, Malaspina, Lapérouse, and Arthur Phillip, span a period when Britain emerged as the world's leading maritime power.

These voyages played a crucial role in shaping the understanding of the Pacific region and its inhabitants. They facilitated scientific discoveries, engaged with indigenous peoples, employed shipboard artists and scientists, witnessed the growing professionalism of the hydrographic service, and explored the vessels used and the colonial, commercial, and imperial contexts of these voyages.

Through captivating text, beautiful illustrations, and artworks from the period, Pacific Exploration brings to life the achievements and legacies of these European explorers. It sheds light on the scientific discoveries made, the interactions with indigenous cultures, the role of shipboard artists and scientists, and the evolving professionalism of the hydrographic service. The book also explores the vessels used, from the sturdy Endeavour to the smaller ships that ventured into the unknown.

By correcting the imbalance and giving greater attention to the achievements of those who followed Cook, Pacific Exploration provides a comprehensive and engaging account of the European voyages into the Pacific. It serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of exploration and the profound impact it had on shaping our understanding of the world.

Weight: 796g
Dimension: 247 x 190 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472957733