"Early Australian Voyages," written by John Pinkerton, is a major historical book which compiles and documents Australia's early nautical discoveries. Pinkerton's book, released in the late 18th century, methodically collects stories of major journeys the fact that contributed to the discovery, mapping, and understanding of the Australian continent. The book provides readers with a complete look into legendary explorers' trips, charting their contacts, opinions, and interactions with strange Australian landscapes and Indigenous cultures. Pinkerton's compilation provides a vivid picture of the hardships and achievements faced through these courageous adventurers, from James Cook's voyages to the initiatives of lesser-known seamen. "Early Australian Voyages" exemplifies Pinkerton's commitment to preserving historical documents and his love of geographical exploration.
John Pinkerton (17 February 1758 – 10 March 1826) was a Scottish antiquarian, cartographer, essayist, numismatist, historian depending on the topic and a founder of the thesis of Germanic racial supremacy. He was one of three sons born to James Pinkerton and Mary (née Heron or Bowie) Pinkerton in Edinburgh. He spent some of his early childhood years in the city's neighborhood before moving to Lanark. His studious youth provided him with broad knowledge of the Classics, and it is known that he enjoyed translating Roman authors such as Livy as a child. After graduating from Edinburgh University, he stayed in the city to begin an apprenticeship in law. His scholastic interests, however, caused him to forsake the legal profession after he began authoring Elegy on Craigmillar Castle, which was first published in 1776.
