Captain James Cook
Captain James Cook Captain James Cook Occupation: Explorer Born: October 27, 1728 in Marton, England Died: Killed by natives at the Hawaiian Islands on February 14, 1779 Best known for: Exploring the South Pacific Biography: James Cook was a British navigator and explorer who sailed and mapped much of the South Pacific . Where did Captain Cook grow up? James Cook was born on October 27, 1728 in Marton, England . His father was a farmer, but as James grew older he began to feel the lure of the sea. At around the age of 18 he took an apprenticeship as a merchant seaman. Although he did well and was advancing in the merchant navy, Cook decided to enlist in the Royal Navy at the start of the Seven Years War. It was during the Seven Years War that James became a master at map making. His ability at surveying, navigating, and creating large accurate maps was noticed by those high up in the Navy. The Endeavour Cook was given command of the Endeavour by England