Title
The Wide Wide Sea: Imperial Ambition, First Contact And The Fateful Final Voyage Of Captain James Cook,Used
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From New York Times bestselling author Hampton Sides, an epic account of the most momentous voyage of the Age of Exploration, which culminated in Captain James Cooks death in Hawaii, and left a complex and controversial legacy still debated to this dayOn July 12th, 1776, Captain James Cook, already lionized as the greatest explorer in British history, set off on his third voyage in his ship the HMS Resolution. Twoandahalf years later, on a beach on the island of Hawaii, Cook was killed in a conflict with native Hawaiians. How did Cook, who was unique among captains for his respect for Indigenous peoples and cultures, come to that fatal moment?Hampton Sides bravura account of Cooks last journey both wrestles with Cooks legacy and provides a thrilling narrative of the titanic efforts and continual danger that characterized exploration in the 1700s. Cook was renowned for his peerless seamanship, his humane leadership, and his dedication to sciencethe famed naturalist Joseph Banks accompanied him on his first voyage, and Cook has been called one of the most important figures of the Age of Enlightenment. He was also deeply interested in the native people he encountered. In fact, his stated mission was to return a Tahitian man, Mai, who had become the toast of London, to his home islands. On previous expeditions, Cook mapped huge swaths of the Pacific, including the east coast of Australia, and initiated first European contact with numerous peoples. He treated his crew well, and endeavored to learn about the societies he encountered with curiosity and without judgment.Yet something was different on this last voyage. Cook became mercurial, resorting to the lash to enforce discipline, and led his two vessels into danger time and again. Uncharacteristically, he ordered violent retaliation for perceived theft on the part of native peoples. This may have had something to do with his secret orders, which were to chart and claim lands before Britains imperial rivals could, and to discover the fabled Northwest Passage. Whatever Cooks intentions, his scientific efforts were the sharp edge of the colonial sword, and the ultimate effects of first contact were catastrophic for Indigenous people around the world. The tensions between Cooks overt and covert missions came to a head on the shores of Hawaii. His first landing there was harmonious, but when Cook returned after mapping the coast of the Pacific Northwest and Alaska, his exploitative treatment of the Hawaiians led to the fatal encounter.At once a ferociouslypaced story of adventure on the high seas and a searching examination of the complexities and consequences of the Age of Exploration, THE WIDE WIDE SEA is a major work from one of our finest narrative nonfiction writers.
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This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: How many pages does the book have? A: The book has seven hundred four pages. This extensive length allows for an in-depth exploration of Captain James Cook's voyages and legacy.
- Q: What are the dimensions of the book? A: The book measures six point zero six inches in length, one point two two inches in width, and nine point one four inches in height. These dimensions make it a standard-sized paperback.
- Q: What type of binding does this book have? A: The book is bound in paperback. This makes it lightweight and easy to handle for extended reading sessions.
- Q: Who is the author of the book? A: The author of the book is Hampton Sides. He is known for his narrative nonfiction writing and detailed historical accounts.
- Q: What is the main genre of the book? A: The main genre of the book is historical nonfiction. It provides a detailed narrative of Captain James Cook's final voyage and its implications.
- Q: Is this book suitable for all ages? A: The book is not specifically marked for age suitability. However, it is best suited for adult readers due to its complex themes and historical content.
- Q: How should I store this book? A: Store the book in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. This will help preserve its quality and prevent fading of the cover and pages.
- Q: Can I clean the book cover? A: Yes, you can clean the book cover gently with a dry cloth. Avoid using water or cleaning solutions, as they may damage the cover.
- Q: What if the book arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, you should contact the seller for a return or exchange. Most sellers offer a satisfaction guarantee.
- Q: Is this book part of a series? A: No, this book is not part of a series. It is a standalone title focusing on Captain James Cook's last voyage.
- Q: Who published the book? A: The book is published by Random House Large Print. They are known for producing high-quality print editions.
- Q: What are the key themes explored in the book? A: Key themes include exploration, colonialism, and the clash of cultures. The book examines the complexities of Captain Cook's interactions with Indigenous peoples.
- Q: Is there a glossary or index included in the book? A: Yes, the book includes an index. This can help readers locate specific information or topics discussed in the text.
- Q: What makes this book different from other historical accounts? A: This book combines detailed historical research with narrative storytelling. It provides both factual information and engaging prose, making it unique.
- Q: Are there illustrations or maps included in the book? A: Yes, the book includes maps and illustrations that enhance the reader's understanding of Captain Cook's voyages.