Arctic Ambitions: Captain Cook and the Northwest Passage

by James K. Barnett (editor), David Nicandri (Editor), Robin Inglis (Preface)

Captain James Cook is justly famous for his explorations of the southern Pacific Ocean, but the exploration of the northern Pacific and the Arctic are equally significant. On his third and final great voyage, Cook surveyed the northwest American coast hoping to find the legendary Northwest Passage. While dreams of a passage proved illusory, Cook’s journey produced some of the finest charts, collections and anthropological observations of his career. It also helped establish British relations with Russia and opened the door to the hugely influential maritime fur trade. This collection of essays from an international and interdisciplinary group of scholars—including former Vancouver Maritime Museum executive director James P. Delgado; Canada’s preeminent naval historian, Barry Gough; Richard Inglis, former head of anthropology at the Royal British Columbia Museum; and University of Alberta historian I.S. MacLaren—uses artifacts, charts, and records of the encounters between Native peoples and explorers to tell the story of this remarkable voyage. The book also provides new insights into Cook’s legacy and his influence on subsequent expeditions in the Pacific Northwest. Finally, the collection uses Cook’s voyage as a springboard to consider the promise and challenge of the “new north” today, demonstrating its importance as a meeting place of political, cultural, economic, and environmental forces.

Genres: History, Travel, Nonfiction

432 pages, Hardcover

First published February 1, 2015

Reviews

[Susan Marrier · Rating 4 out of 5]

This collection of 18 essays was a major undertaking to accompany the exhibition of the same name in Anchorage and Tacoma during 2015. The first five essays "sketch the background of Cook's third voyage and take the story into the voyage itself." The next group is an overview of Cook's third voyage, and a "discussion of the doctrine of discovery with reference to explorations of the Pacific coast of America in the last quarter of the eighteenth century". Then, the focus shifts to Cook's legacy, particularly his significant cartographic achievements, as well as the voyages and contributions of George Vancouver. Then finally, a look into the challenges and potential of the Arctic today, with particular reference to the collaborative efforts of nations to solve disputes and work together on problems arising from increased marine and economic activity and global warming. This is a large volume (389 double-width pages) lavishly illustrated with sketches, paintings, lithographs, charts (maps), and photographs. Just a few observations: While Cook's death in Hawaii is alluded to many times, it is never explained. I did not know that the modern watch (i.e. wristwatch, pocket watch, clock) was invented in 1769 as an essential aid to navigation. International law spells out (and still spells out) the means by which territory can be claimed for nations (specifically European nations, without regard to the original inhabitants/owners). Linnaeus, the well-known inventor of the system for classifying living things, had two classifications for human beings: homo sapiens (Europeans) and homo monstrosus (everyone else), a reflection of and foundation for racism and white supremacy. In 1493, Pope Alexander drew a line through the Atlantic, giving all newly "discovered" lands to the West to Spain, and all to the East to Portugal. These are only a few small observations from a volume that presents a wide scope of information in a very readable format. Recommended to anyone with an interest in early exploration of the Eastern Pacific and the search for passages through the Arctic, as well as present-day issues in the North.

[Cathy Converse · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arctic Ambitions is an anthology featuring eighteen essays by a diverse group of international scholars. This visually stunning and beautifully illustrated book is a must-have for anyone interested in maritime history and the struggle for sovereignty in the Arctic and Pacific Northwest. It delves deeply into the legacy of Captain James Cook, a figure who remains somewhat enigmatic, and explores his significant contributions to cartography including his often-overlooked third voyage in 1776 to discover the elusive Northwest Passage.
One of the most engaging aspects of the book is how it contextualizes Cook’s historical voyages within the contemporary issues facing the Arctic. It explores the profound implications of melting Arctic sea ice for Canada, touching on commercial, security, and sovereignty concerns. Additionally, it emphasizes the need for collaborative efforts among Arctic nations to manage the increasing marine transportation in the region. Once you start reading this book, you’ll be captivated by its insights and perspectives.

[Kathleen Gardiner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had to wait a long time for it, bit it was worth the wait! I love it, and will keep it in my collection.
Not a novel, but rather like an encyclopedia. It gives a lot of information, and has pictures. I think it's awesome!
Thanks for sending it to me!