Baudin, Napoleon and the exploration of Australia

Abstract

This is the first in-depth study of the sojourn in Sydney made by Nicolas Baudin’s scientific expedition to Australia in 1802. Starbuck focuses on the reconstruction of the voyage during the expedition’s stay in colonial Sydney and how this sheds new light on our understanding of French society, politics and science in the era of Bonaparte. Aspects examined include Baudin’s leadership skills, life on board the ship, colonial encounters with Aborigines and the nature of Anglo-French rivalry during the period. While previous histories have viewed Baudin’s time in Sydney as little more than an opportunity for the French to recuperate after their journey, Starbuck presents it as a pivotal moment in French history, intellectual thought and imperialism.