A Pirate Of Exquisite Mind

Discover the captivating story of William Dampier, an extraordinary English adventurer and pirate of the 17th century. In this meticulously crafted B-format paperback, dive into the life and explorations of Dampier, who was not only a notorious pirate on the Spanish Main but also a pioneering scientist and travel writer. With 512 pages of rich narrative history, this book delves deep into Dampier's groundbreaking achievements, such as mapping the world's oceans and being the first Englishman to land on the shores of Australia, a full 80 years before Captain Cook. This compelling account also unveils his early writings on Galapagos wildlife, which would later inspire Charles Darwin. Explore the contradictions of a man who enjoyed remarkable success but faced scandal and failure in his later years. As the first travel writer with his instantly bestselling work, A NEW VOYAGE AROUND THE WORLD, Dampier's life is an enthralling blend of adventure, exploration, and intellectual pursuit. Perfect for history buffs and adventurers alike, this classic narrative history promises to enrich your collection. Enjoy FREE shipping on this item, though combined shipping with other products is not available. Please expect delivery within 10 days.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780552772105
Format: B-format paperback
Year: 2005
Publisher: RANDOM HOUSE UK
Pages: 512


Description:
William Dampier, (1651-1715), was an English adventurer and pirate who preyed on ships on the Spanish Main. Poor and ill-educated and determined to make his fortune, he nonetheless had a passion for exploration and scientific research.Dampier was the first to map the winds and currents of the world's oceans; led the first recorded party of Englishmen to set foot on Australia - 80 years before Cook; wrote about Galapagos wildlife 150 years before Darwin, who drew on Dampier's notes in his own work; was the first travel writer- A NEW VOYAGE AROUND THE WORLD was instant bestseller when it was published in 1697 - said to have influenced the novels of Swift and Defoe.A man full of contradictions- he who achieved so much 'blew it' later in life, declining into scandal, failure and even farce. A unique man ahead of his time, he lived a large part of his life among pirates yet managed to preserve what Coleridge called his 'exquisite refinement of mind'. A classic example of the best narrative history.

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