Dumont dUrville : Explorer & Polymath

Discover the life and legacy of Jules-Sebastien-Cesar Dumont d'Urville, a pivotal maritime explorer and polymath of the 19th century, in this meticulously researched biography by Edward Duyker. Often referred to as France's Captain Cook, d'Urville navigated tumultuous times and left an indelible mark on the fields of botany, entomology, and ethnography. This hardback edition of 'Dumont d'Urville: Explorer & Polymath' (2014) features 664 pages of captivating insight into d'Urville's extensive voyages across the Pacific, including his visits to New Zealand and the Australian coast where he played a crucial role in preemptive British settlements. Duyker reveals d'Urville's secret orders for a French penal colony search and his scientific contributions, including the discovery and classification of new species and the conceptual introduction of the terms Melanesia and Micronesia. Enjoy a grand adventure replete with drama and pathos, as Duyker presents previously overlooked primary documents that shed light on d'Urville's true legacy. Perfect for history enthusiasts and those interested in maritime exploration, this biography brings to life the story of an underappreciated figure whose explorations transformed our understanding of the Pacific region. A must-have for libraries and personal collections alike, order your copy today from Smartfox AU!