James Cook

James Cook was a naval captain, navigator, and explorer, He embarked on groundbreaking expeditions that helped map the Pacific, New Zealand, and Australia. After serving as an apprentice, Cook eventually joined the British Navy and, at age 29, was promoted to ship's master. During the Seven Year's War (1756-1763), he commanded a captured ship for the Royal Navy. In 1768, he took command of the first scientific expedition to the Pacific.

In 1770, on his ship the HMB Endeavour, Cook charted New Zealand and the Great Barrier Reef of Australia and chartered several islands in the Pacific. Using a combination of seamanship, navigation, and cartographic skills, Cook radically expanded and changed European perceptions of world geography. This area has since been credited as one of the world's most dangerous areas to navigate. He later disproved the existence of Terra Australis, a fabled southern continent. Cook's voyages helped guide generations of explorers and provided the first accurate map of the Pacific.

Born: 1728
Died: February 14, 1779

Nationality: England