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Early Australian Voyages: Pelsart, Tasman, Dampier   By: (1758-1826)

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In John Pinkerton's thoroughly researched book, he delves into the captivating early Australian voyages undertaken by explorers Pelsart, Tasman, and Dampier. The author takes readers on a vivid journey back in time to the 17th and 18th centuries, when uncharted territories beckoned adventurous souls to venture into the unknown.

Pinkerton meticulously presents each explorer's individual tale, providing a wealth of historical context and thoroughly examining the challenges they faced. The book opens with the ill-fated voyage of Francisco Pelsart in 1629—his journey plagued by storms, shipwrecks, and perilous encounters with native Australian inhabitants. Pinkerton's descriptive narrative allows readers to vividly imagine the treacherous conditions these early explorers endured.

Moving on to Abel Tasman, Pinkerton explores the Dutch explorer's critical role in charting parts of the Australian coastline in the 1640s. Pinkerton weaves together Tasman's voyages, painting a vivid picture of his encounters with indigenous cultures and his discovery of key islands in the region. Through extensive research, the author presents Tasman as an astute cartographer, adding depth and nuance to his historical significance.

Lastly, Pinkerton explores the exploits of William Dampier, an English pirate-turned-explorer who journeyed to Australia multiple times in the late 17th century. Dampier's travels in the region contributed to an expanding understanding of the continent's geography and indigenous populations. Pinkerton dives into Dampier's encounters, including his interactions with Aboriginal peoples, providing insights into the complex dynamics between European explorers and native inhabitants.

One of the book's notable strengths is Pinkerton's ability to seamlessly integrate primary sources and historical accounts, giving readers a comprehensive understanding of the voyages and the explorers themselves. The author's attention to detail breathes life into these centuries-old stories, making them accessible and captivating for modern readers.

While Pinkerton's dedication to historical accuracy is commendable, casual readers may find the abundance of detailed geographical descriptions overwhelming at times. Additionally, the book's narrative structure can occasionally feel disjointed, as each explorer's story is given separate sections, rather than a more fluid chronology. However, these minor missteps do little to diminish the overall quality of Pinkerton's work.

Overall, Early Australian Voyages: Pelsart, Tasman, Dampier is a well-researched and enlightening book that sheds light on a crucial period in Australia's exploration history. John Pinkerton's passion for the subject matter is evident, and his dedication to presenting an accurate and comprehensive account of these early journeys is commendable. This book will undoubtedly appeal to history enthusiasts, maritime aficionados, and anyone interested in the rich tapestry of Australia's past.

First Page:

EARLY AUSTRALIAN VOYAGES BY JOHN PINKERTON

Contents:

Introduction Pelsart Tasman Dampier

INTRODUCTION.

In the days of Plato, imagination found its way, before the mariners, to a new world across the Atlantic, and fabled an Atlantis where America now stands. In the days of Francis Bacon, imagination of the English found its way to the great Southern Continent before the Portuguese or Dutch sailors had sight of it, and it was the home of those wise students of God and nature to whom Bacon gave his New Atlantis. The discoveries of America date from the close of the fifteenth century. The discoveries of Australia date only from the beginning of the seventeenth. The discoveries of the Dutch were little known in England before the time of Dampier's voyage, at the close of the seventeenth century, with which this volume ends. The name of New Holland, first given by the Dutch to the land they discovered on the north west coast, then extended to the continent and was since changed to Australia.

During the eighteenth century exploration was continued by the English. The good report of Captain Cook caused the first British settlement to be made at Port Jackson, in 1788, not quite a hundred years ago, and the foundations were then laid of the settlement of New South Wales, or Sydney... Continue reading book >>




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