James Cook (explorer)

James Cook was an 18th-century British explorer and cartographer known for his groundbreaking voyages in the Pacific Ocean. Born in 1728, he is famous for mapping many areas, including the eastern coastline of Australia and the Hawaiian Islands. Cook's expeditions contributed significantly to European knowledge of the Pacific and its cultures. He also made important observations in fields like astronomy and botany. Tragically, Cook was killed in Hawaii in 1779 during a conflict with local natives. His legacy includes his impact on navigation and exploration, as well as his influence on the understanding of the Pacific region.