James Cook

James Cook

Early Life and Education

• Born: October 27, 1728, Marton, Yorkshire, England
• Parents: James Cook Sr. and Grace Pace
• Education: Limited formal education, self-taught in mathematics, navigation, and astronomy

Career

• Merchant seaman and Royal Navy officer
• Explored the Pacific Ocean, Australia, and New Zealand
• Mapped extensive coastlines and discovered numerous islands
• Made significant contributions to cartography and navigation

Voyages

• First Voyage (1768-1771):
  • Sailed from Plymouth, England on the Endeavour
  • Explored the South Pacific, including Tahiti and New Zealand
  • Reached Australia's east coast, claiming it for Britain
• Second Voyage (1772-1775):
  • Sailed from Plymouth on the Resolution and Adventure
  • Explored the Antarctic region, reaching the edge of the ice pack
  • Explored the North Pacific, including Hawaii and the Bering Strait
• Third Voyage (1776-1780):
  • Sailed from Plymouth on the Resolution and Discovery
  • Explored the Pacific Northwest coast of North America
  • Sailed through the Bering Strait and searched for the Northwest Passage
  • Died in Hawaii on February 14, 1779, during a conflict with natives

Achievements and Legacy

• Renowned navigator and explorer
• Made significant contributions to the understanding of the Pacific Ocean and its islands
• His voyages helped to establish British control over Australia and New Zealand
• His detailed maps and charts improved navigation and seafaring
• His discoveries and observations contributed to the development of scientific knowledge

Personal Life

• Married: Elizabeth Batts in 1762
• Children: Six children, including James Cook Jr., who also became a naval officer and explorer

Death

• Died: February 14, 1779, Kealakekua Bay, Hawaii
• Cause of death: Killed in a conflict with natives during his third voyage