A Life Of Matthew Fontaine Maury

Matthew Fontaine Maury, Father of Oceanography

In becoming "a useful man" on the maritime stage, Matthew Fontaine Maury focused on the ills of a clique-ridden Navy, charted sea lanes and bested Great Britain's admiralty in securing the fastest, safest routes to India and Australia. He helped bind the Old and New worlds with the laying of the transatlantic cable, forcefully advocated Southern rights in a troubled union, and preached Manifest Destiny from the Arctic to Cape Horn. And he revolutionized warfare in perfecting electronically detonated mines. Maury's eagerness to go to the public on the questions of the day riled powerful men in business and politics, and the U.S., Confederate and Royal navies. He more than once ran afoul of Jefferson Davis and Stephen R. Mallory, secretary of the Confederate States Navy. But through the political, social and scientific struggles of his time, Maury had his share of powerful allies, like President John Tyler.

Matthew Fontaine Maury, the Pathfinder of the Seas

In 'Matthew Fontaine Maury, the Pathfinder of the Seas' by Charles Lee Lewis, readers are taken on a journey through the life and accomplishments of one of the most influential figures in oceanography and navigation. Lewis paints a vivid picture of Maury's groundbreaking work in charting ocean currents and his significant contributions to the field of meteorology. The book is written in a detailed and informative style, combining historical context with scientific explanations to showcase Maury's lasting impact on maritime exploration. Lewis captures the essence of Maury's dedication to his work and his unwavering pursuit of knowledge in a way that captivates readers seeking to learn more about the history of oceanography. Maury's legacy as the 'Pathfinder of the Seas' is expertly explored in this engaging and insightful book by Lewis, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the history of science and exploration.

A Life of Matthew Fontaine Maury