James Cook
Definition
James Cook was a British explorer, navigator, and cartographer in the 18th century. He is best known for his three voyages to the Pacific Ocean, where he mapped many areas and recorded several islands and coastlines on European maps for the first time.
Analogy
Think of James Cook as an early version of Google Maps. Just like how Google Maps helps us navigate unknown territories today, Cook's detailed maps helped Europeans navigate and understand the vast Pacific region.
Related terms
Pacific Exploration: The period during which European explorers discovered and mapped the Pacific Ocean and its islands.
Cartography: The science or practice of drawing maps.
Age of Discovery: A period from the 15th to 17th centuries when Europeans explored Africa, Asia, and America extensively.
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