Robert Kerr, a Scottish publisher and novelist, compiled the multi-volume book "A General History and Collection of Voyages and Travels". Volume 12 of the series, published in 1824, details the trips and adventures of the English sailor William Dampier. Dampier, who lived in the late 17th and early 18th centuries, was a daring wanderer. He made many observations and discoveries while traveling around the globe and to the South Seas on several occasions. Due to the popularity and importance of his travel journals, he is recognized as one of the most important English explorers of his day. In volume 12 of "A General History and Collection of Voyages and Travels," Kerr collects Dampier's writings on his voyages, including his observations of the flora, animals, and people he encountered as well as his descriptions of the places he visited. The book also includes maps and illustrations to help readers visualize the places and occasions that Dampier discusses. Academics in history, anthropology, geography, and other fields will find the "General History and Collection of Voyages and Travels" to be a valuable resource since it provides a detailed insight into the adventures and observations of some of the most important explorers of the 17th and 18th centuries.
Hailing from Scotland, Robert Kerr was a man of many talents who lived for 56 years while constantly evincing an air of scholarship, historical appreciation and linguistic prowess. His most famous contribution to the literary world was undoubtedly his awe-inspiring masterpiece, 'A General History and Collection of Voyages and Travels,' which was composed of the enthralling narratives of numerous expeditions, encompassing extensively diverse topics. Kerr's academic pedigree was pretty remarkable, as he received his education from no less a place than the esteemed University of Edinburgh and later he was appointed as a distinguished professor at University of Glasgow. His expertise stretched across various subjects like languages, history, and literature. With this wealth of knowledge, he pieced together a meticulous account of the history of exploration - one that's considered comprehensive and authoritative. Kerr's 'General History' is still a crucial reference material for scholars and historians, owing to its precision and in-depth coverage. Beyond his role as a historian, he was also greatly esteemed as a translator. In fact, he was the brains behind translating some of the finest works of writers like Goethe and Voltaire into English.
