Charles Wilkes, American naval officer and explorer, 1872

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Charles Wilkes, American naval officer and explorer, 1872

Charles Wilkes, American naval officer and explorer, 1872. Wilkes (1798-1877) led a US government expedition that explored the northwest coast of North America and part of the coast of Antarctica, later named Wilkes Land, and circumnavigated the globe. In 1861, as commander of the San Jacinto during the American Civil War, he stopped the British mail steamer Trent. This incident, the Trent affair, nearly involved the Union in a war with Britain. Wilkes was court-martialed in 1864. Engraving from John Gilmary Sheas A Childs History of the United States, Hess and McDavitt, (New York, 1872)

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Media ID 14904800

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American Civil War Explorer John Gilmary John Gilmary Shea Naval Uniform Sailor Sailors Shea Wilkes Naval Warfare

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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases Charles Wilkes, an influential American naval officer and explorer, in 1872. Known for his remarkable achievements, Wilkes led a groundbreaking US government expedition that extensively explored the northwest coast of North America and parts of Antarctica. In fact, one of the regions he discovered during this voyage was later named after him - Wilkes Land. Wilkes' legacy extends beyond exploration. During the American Civil War in 1861, as commander of the San Jacinto, he made a pivotal decision to stop the British mail steamer Trent. This incident became famously known as the Trent affair and nearly pushed the Union into a war with Britain. Despite his notable accomplishments, Wilkes faced adversity throughout his career. In 1864, he was court-martialed for various reasons. Nevertheless, this engraving from John Gilmary Shea's A Child's History of the United States immortalizes him as a significant figure in American history. The black-and-white portrait captures Wilkes wearing his distinguished naval uniform from the 19th century. His determined gaze reflects both his dedication to serving his country and his unwavering spirit as an explorer. This print not only commemorates Charles Wilkes but also symbolizes bravery, curiosity, and resilience - qualities that define great explorers like him who have shaped our understanding of the world we live in today.

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