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Died Age: 40
source:wikimedia.org
Matthew Flinders
Birthday:
16 Mar, 1774
Date of Death:
19 Jul, 1814
Cause of death:
Kidney disease
Nationality:
English
Famous As:
Royal
Age at the time of death:
40
Early Life and Education
Matthew Flinders was an English navigator and cartographer, best known for leading the first circumnavigation of Australia and identifying it as a continent. Widely regarded as one of the greatest explorers of the Age of Discovery, Flinders played a pivotal role in mapping the Australian coastline and promoting the name “Australia” for the southern landmass.
Born on March 16, 1774, in Donington, Lincolnshire, England to Matthew Flinders, a surgeon, and his wife Susannan.
Flinders had his early education at Cowley’s Charity School, Donington, from 1780 and then at the Reverend John Shinglar’s Grammar School at Horbling in Lincolnshire.
After his education, Flinders joined the Royal Navy at the young age of 15. His passion for exploration was inspired by reading Daniel Defoe’s Robinson Crusoe during his youth.
Flinders’ early naval experiences included sailing with Captain William Bligh on the HMS Providence in 1791, a journey that took him to Tahiti and other Pacific islands. During his travels, he met George Bass, a surgeon and naturalist who became his lifelong friend and collaborator.
Professional Career and Exploration
In 1795, Flinders and Bass traveled to New South Wales aboard the HMS Reliance. Together, they explored the coast of Australia, proving that Van Diemen’s Land (modern-day Tasmania) was an island by circumnavigating it in a small boat named the Norfolk. They also discovered and charted the Bass Strait, the waterway separating mainland Australia from Tasmania.
Flinders’ greatest achievement came in 1801, when he was given command of the HMS Investigator. His mission: to chart the entire coastline of Australia. Flinders was the first to use the name “Australia”, derived from the Latin term Terra Australis (meaning “southern land”).
During this expedition, Flinders met a French expedition led by Nicolas Baudin at Encounter Bay in South Australia. Despite tensions between their countries, the meeting was peaceful, and the two captains exchanged information and maps.
Flinders was accompanied on this journey by Bungaree, an Aboriginal man who served as an interpreter and mediator with local Indigenous groups, and his loyal cat Trim, who became a symbol of his voyages.
After successfully completing his circumnavigation of Australia in 1803, Flinders set sail for England to share his findings. However, he was detained by the French on the island of Mauritius and held as a prisoner of war for over six years. Flinders was finally released in 1810, returning to England to publish his discoveries.
Matthew Flinders's Quote's
Later Life and Legacy
Despite his hardships, Flinders’ work had a profound impact on the mapping and understanding of Australia. His book, “A Voyage to Terra Australis”, and its accompanying atlas were groundbreaking contributions to geography. Flinders passed away on July 19, 1814, at the age of 40, due to kidney disease.
His name is immortalized in over 100 geographical features and places in Australia, including Flinders Island in southeastern Australia.
Profile Snapshot
Name:
Matthew Flinders
Popular Name:
Matthew Flinders
Gender:
Male
Cause of Death:
Kidney disease
Spouse:
Ann Chappelle
Place of Birth:
Donington, Lincolnshire, England
Place of Death:
London, England
Occupation / Profession:
Royal
Navy officer
Personality Type
Adventurer : Flexible and charming artists, always ready to explore and experience something new. Matthew Flinders was known for his adventurous spirit, curiosity, and innovative mindset. His ability to adapt to challenges, navigate uncharted waters, and promote his vision of the Australian continent reflects his dynamic and forward-thinking personality
Matthew Flinders's Interesting Facts
Despite tensions between Britain and France, he exchanged maps peacefully with French captain Nicolas Baudin.
His loyal cat, Trim, accompanied him on many voyages and became a symbol of his explorations.
Flinders was only 15 years old when he joined the Royal Navy.
He was imprisoned for over six years on the island of Mauritius.
Achievements & Awards
Matthew Flinders’ name is associated with over 100 geographical features and places in Australia.
External Links