Navigating by the Southern Cross: A History of the European Discovery and Exploration of Australia - Paperback

by Kenneth Morgan (Author)

In this comprehensive study, Kenneth Morgan provides an authoritative account of European exploration and discovery in Australia. The book presents a detailed chronological overview of European interests in the Australian continent, from initial speculations about the 'Great Southern Land' to the major hydrographic expeditions of the 19th century. In particular, he analyses the early crossings of the Dutch in the 17th century, the exploits of English 'buccaneer adventurer' William Dampier, the famous voyages of James Cook and Matthew Flinders, and the little-known French annexation of Australia in 1772.

Introducing new findings and drawing on the latest in historiographical research, this book situates developments in navigation, nautical astronomy and cartography within the broader contexts of imperial, colonial, and maritime history.

Author Biography

Kenneth Morgan is a Professor of History at Brunel University, London, UK. He is a fellow of the Royal Historical Society and has served on the editorial board for the International Journal of Maritime History. His research and teaching interests include the British Atlantic world, maritime history, imperialism, slavery and abolitionism.