Fin vs History Don't Topple Statues, Wedgie Them | Captain Cook & The First Fleet (Part 1)
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Nov 17, 2025 The hosts dive into Captain Cook's surprising image as a colonial figure, touching on his very humble beginnings. They discuss the fascinating history of early maps and explorations that led to his ambitious voyages. Various anecdotes reveal Cook's disciplined approach, including innovative methods to combat scurvy. There's also a captivating look at Cook's voyages to Tahiti and New Zealand, filled with cultural exchanges and misunderstandings. Finally, they hint at Cook's dual role as both a meticulous mapmaker and a controversial figure in history.
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Australia's Public Guilt Ritual
- Australia wrestles publicly with its colonial past, making land acknowledgements part of everyday culture.
- Fin Taylor argues this national unease seeps into performances and civic rituals, creating exhausting guilt rituals.
Cook's Humble Rise To Hydrographer
- James Cook rose from humble Yorkshire beginnings to become the Royal Navy's top hydrographer through steady, disciplined work.
- The hosts describe his early life: grocer's apprentice, naval service, survey work and marriage to Elizabeth Batts.
Banks Shaped Colonial Botany
- Joseph Banks shaped Britain's botanical understanding and influenced what colonies became economically valuable.
- Banks' plant obsession and funding of the scientific team mattered more for Australia's future than Cook's maps alone.