Introduction

Captain James Cook
Born October 27, 1728, died February 14, 1779

An Italian portrait of James Cook Copyright/Source

Many believe that James Cook was the greatest ocean explorer ever to have lived, and that he mapped more of the world than any other person. It cannot be denied that he combined great qualities of seamanship, leadership and navigational skill. He mapped many parts of the Pacific, including New Zealand, Hawaii and the west coast of North America. He also set an example of how to treat a ship and its crew.

Everybody's Equal

On Cook's ships it didn't matter if you were a high-ranking officer or a lowly sailor. He insisted that everyone know every job by doing it themselves. It was something very special to say you had sailed with James Cook. It meant you were a first-class seaman.