Alexander Dalrymple

Alexander Dalrymple (July 24, 1737 – June 19, 1808) was a Scottish geographer.

Related Topics:
July 24 - 1737 - June 19 - 1808 - Scottish - Geographer

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Dalrymple was the first hydrographer of the British Admiralty. He was the main proponent of the theory that there existed a vast undiscovered continent in the South Pacific, Terra Australis Incognita.He produced thousands of nautical charts mapping a remarkable number of seas and oceans for the first time and contributing significantly to the safety of shipping. His theories prompted a number of expeditions in search of this mythical land, until James Cook demonstrated its non-existence on his second voyage in 1772?1775.

Related Topics:
Hydrographer - British Admiralty - Continent - South Pacific - Terra Australis Incognita - James Cook - 1772 - 1775

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Dalrymple published the Historical Collection of the Several Voyages and Discoveries in the South Pacific Ocean in 1770-1771 which aroused widespread interest in the his claim of existence of an unknown continent. This led Captain Cook, to undertake another voyage into the South Pacific . He was bitterly disappointed since it was Captain Cook and not him who was appointed commander of the expedition which eventually led to the discovery of Australia in 1770.

Related Topics:
South Pacific - 1770

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