William Dampier

Date of Birth: September 5, 1651

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Date of Death: March 1715

Biography

William Dampier was an English explorer, navigator, and naturalist, born in East Coker, Somerset, England. He is best known for being the first person to circumnavigate the world three times and for his detailed accounts of his travels, which offered invaluable insights into the natural history and geography of the regions he visited. Dampier’s explorations took him to the Caribbean, the Pacific Islands, Australia, and Southeast Asia. His books, particularly “A New Voyage Round the World” and “A Discourse of Winds,” were widely read and influenced other explorers and scientists, including Charles Darwin and James Cook. Dampier’s contributions to navigation, cartography, and natural history were significant, making him a key figure in the Age of Discovery.

5 Interesting Facts about William Dampier

1. William Dampier was the first Englishman to explore parts of Australia and the first person to circumnavigate the globe three times.

2. His observations and records of winds and currents influenced the fields of meteorology and oceanography.

3. Dampier was a privateer and pirate before becoming an explorer, and he documented his adventures in several popular books.

4. He made significant contributions to the English language, introducing words like “barbecue,” “avocado,” “chopsticks,” and “subspecies.”

5. Dampier’s works were referenced by notable figures such as Jonathan Swift in “Gulliver’s Travels” and by Charles Darwin in “On the Origin of Species.”

5 Most Interesting Quotes from William Dampier

1. “The sea is the greatest thing on earth, and he that commands it is the greatest among living creatures.”

2. “I am always in haste, but never in a hurry.”

3. “Though the weather be never so sultry, yet the heat is never troublesome.”

4. “These birds, though they live in such remote parts, yet are very familiar and tame.”

5. “When I had taken a good draught of my own water, I found it so wholesome and refreshing that I never afterwards cared for any other.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

William Dampier’s highest net worth is difficult to ascertain accurately due to the lack of comprehensive financial records from his time. However, as a privateer and later an explorer funded by the British government, he would have had access to significant resources and wealth during his expeditions.

Children

There are no widely documented records of William Dampier having children. His personal life remains relatively obscure, with most historical accounts focusing on his explorations and writings.