"A New Map of The World, with Captain Cook's Tracks, His Discoveries and Those of The Other Circumnavigators" is a historical map created in 1808 by James Whittle and Robert Laurie. This map was designed to illustrate the world as known during that time and to showcase the exploration and discoveries made by the famous British explorer, Captain James Cook, as well as other notable circumnavigators.
Captain James Cook was a renowned British navigator and cartographer who made significant contributions to the exploration of the Pacific Ocean and its surrounding regions during the 18th century. He undertook several voyages on behalf of the British Royal Navy, during which he charted numerous islands and coastlines, including parts of Australia, New Zealand, and Hawaii. His voyages greatly expanded the knowledge of the geography and natural history of these regions.
The map "A New Map of The World" likely depicted the tracks and routes taken by Captain Cook during his explorations, showcasing the lands he discovered and the territories he mapped. Additionally, it would have featured the paths of other notable circumnavigators who had also made important contributions to the exploration of the world during that era.
These historical maps are not only valuable for understanding the geography of the time but also for studying the evolving perceptions of the world as explorers continued to uncover new territories and expand the boundaries of known lands.
James Whittle and Robert Laurie were prominent British mapmakers and publishers who worked together during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. They were known for producing a wide range of maps, atlases, and navigational charts that were highly regarded for their accuracy and attention to detail.
James Whittle (1757-1818) started his career as an apprentice to the cartographer Thomas Kitchen. In 1794, he became a partner in the publishing firm Laurie & Whittle, which was established by Robert Laurie and James Whittle's father, Robert Laurie Sr.
Robert Laurie (c. 1755-1836) was a skilled engraver and publisher. He worked as a copperplate engraver and, in 1794, became a partner in the publishing company Laurie & Whittle, which had been founded by his father and James Whittle's father.
Together, James Whittle and Robert Laurie continued to develop and expand the firm, producing a wide range of maps and atlases covering various regions of the world. They were well-known for their decorative and informative maps, which were popular among navigators, sailors, and the general public.
In addition to producing maps, Whittle and Laurie also published sea charts, nautical books, and globes, contributing significantly to the dissemination of geographic knowledge during their time.
Their partnership lasted until James Whittle's death in 1818. After his passing, Robert Laurie continued to run the business for some time. The firm eventually underwent several changes and mergers over the years, and the Laurie and Whittle name gradually disappeared from the map publishing world.
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