Abel Tasman's Second Pacific Voyage Begins

February 29th, 1644

February 29th, 1644

Abel Tasman's Second Pacific Voyage Begins
How Long Ago?

381 years, 15 days ago

Location

Batavia, Indonesia

Category

Exploration & Discovery

People
  • Abel Tasman
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Abel Tasman's Second Pacific Voyage Begins

Abel Tasman embarked on his second voyage into the Pacific, leaving Batavia in command of three ships: the Zuiden, the Heemskerck, and the L'Aimable. This expedition aimed to explore new territories and improve trade routes, particularly in search of the fabled continent of Terra Australis. Tasman's previous voyage had already brought him fame, and he sought to uncover more of the Pacific's mysteries, forming relations and mapping unknown areas.

Departed with three ships for exploration

Focused on trade routes and new territories

Previous voyage marked major discoveries

Aimed to establish relations with local populations

What Happened?

Abel Tasman's second voyage into the Pacific was a significant expedition that showcased Dutch exploration ambitions during the 17th century. Departing from Batavia, present-day Jakarta, Tasman commanded three ships: the Zuiden, the Heemskerck, and the L'Aimable. His earlier successful venture in 1642 made him a notable figure in maritime exploration, as he was the first European to encounter New Zealand and parts of the Australian coast. This subsequent journey aimed to extend European knowledge of the vast and largely unexplored Pacific Ocean. Tasman's mission was driven by a dual focus: enhancing trade opportunities for the Dutch East India Company and uncovering new lands rumored to contain resources. The voyage intended to establish contact with local populations and potentially lay the groundwork for future Dutch settlements or trade agreements. Thus, the expedition was not just a maritime adventure but also a calculated move within the global economic strategies of colonial powers of the time.

Why Does it Matter?

Abel Tasman's second Pacific voyage illustrates the heightened interest in exploration during the Age of Discovery, revealing European ambitions to expand their empires and trade networks. Tasman’s voyages contributed significantly to the mapping of the Pacific region and informed subsequent explorers and traders about the complexities and possibilities of these lands. His journeys into Polynesia and the broader pacific established a foundation for future navigation in that area.

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