Synopses & Reviews
Includes bibliographical references (p. [431]-453) and index.
Review
"The search for a sea route through America, a Northwest Passage, had enticed seamen as early as the 16th century. By the 18th century, with improvements in instruments and charts, expeditions to find the Northwest Passage multiplied. The first explorers focused on the Hudson Bay area, pushing up rivers and bays in search of a fabled sea which would them lead to the Pacific Ocean and the fabled riches of the Orient. Williams has written a marvelous tale of wildly optimistic seamen who froze, starved, endured storms and often died in the vain search for a fantasy—a Northwest Passage. Late in the 18th century, sea captains attempted to locate a passage from the Pacific side of the continent. After exploring the Pacific coast, Captain George Vancouver concluded that there was no Northwest Passage—it was a hoax. In this well researched history of courageous seamen, Williams has written a gripping tale of valiant men who were out on a fool's errand. Readers can only admire their courage." Reviewed by Andrew Witmer, Virginia Quarterly Review (Copyright 2006 Virginia Quarterly Review)
Synopsis
The eighteenth century--the Age of Reason--was characterized by determined attempts by philosophers, scientists, and political theorists to dispel myth, superstition, and ignorance. But the Age of Reason also witnessed some of the most irrational and vainglorious attempts by sailors and speculators to find a navigable Northwest Passage that would lead through the icy seas of the Arctic from Hudson Bay to the wealth of the Pacific Ocean. Lured by the promise of fame and riches, men endured paralyzing cold, malnutrition, and terrifying storms. Many lives and fortunes were lost in the quest for the elusive "maritime philosopher's stone."
In this gripping work of narrative history, Glyn Williams describes the adventures and mishaps of these misguided expeditions. Vividly written and replete with fascinating characters, Voyages of Delusion is a riveting contribution to the history of North American exploration.