Author

William Dampier

1651-1715

William Dampier (1651-1715) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.

Wikipedia

Subjects

Buccaneers -- Early works to 1800 Natural history -- Pre-Linnean works Voyages and travels -- Early works to 1800 Voyages around the world -- Early works to 1800 Canary Islands -- Description and travel -- Early works to 1800 Indonesia -- Description and travel -- Early works to 1800 Pacific Ocean -- Discovery and exploration -- Early works to 1800 Salvador (Brazil) -- Description and travel -- Early works to 1800 Shark Bay (W.A.) -- Discovery and exploration -- Early works to 1800

Books by William Dampier

A Voyage to New Holland, Etc. in the Year 1699

"A Voyage to New Holland, Etc. in the Year 1699" by William Dampier is a historical account written in the early 18th century. This travelogue details Dampier's observations and experiences from his voyage to various exotic locations, including the Canary Islands, Brazil, and New Holland (now Australia), offering insights into the inhabitants, their cultures, and the natural environment he encountered. The work is notable for its combination of personal narrative with geographical and ethnographical observations, written in an engaging style that aims to inform and entertain. At the start of the book, Dampier recounts his departure from the Downs and the course of his journey across the Atlantic Ocean, making stops at the Canary Islands and the Cape Verde Islands. He provides detailed descriptions of these locations, discussing their geography, local customs, trade, and natural resources, while also sharing practical navigation tips and cautionary advice for other sailors. The opening sets a tone of exploration and discovery, emphasizing the challenges of long sea voyages and establishing a framework for the rich and informative accounts that will follow about other regions he visits throughout his travels.

A Continuation of a Voyage to New Holland, Etc. in the Year 1699

"A Continuation of a Voyage to New Holland, Etc. in the Year 1699" by William Dampier is a historical account written in the early 18th century. This work recounts the author's explorations of various islands, particularly in the region of New Holland (now Australia) and the surrounding archipelagoes of Timor and New Guinea. Dampier details his journey, the landscapes he encounters, the European settlements, native inhabitants, and the natural resources available in the regions he surveys. The opening of the book sets the stage for Dampier's voyage, explaining his motivation to explore these little-known lands in search of fresh water and provisions. He describes his departure from the coast of New Holland and subsequent arrival at Timor, detailing challenges such as difficult navigation due to inaccurate charts and his attempts to find water and engage with local populations. Additionally, he notes the presence of Dutch forts and the various island inhabitants, foreshadowing the interactions and encounters that will shape his journey. This opening highlights both the logistical challenges of exploration at the time and the author's keen observations of the natural world around him.