James King | |
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Born | 1750 Clitheroe, Lancashire, Great Britain |
Died | 16 November 1784 (aged 34) Nice, France |
Buried | Nice, France |
Allegiance | Kingdom of Great Britain |
Service | Royal Navy |
Years of service | 1762–1784 |
Rank | Post captain |
Commands | |
Battles / wars |
Captain James King FRS (1750 – 16 November 1784) was an officer of the Royal Navy.[1] He served under James Cook on his last voyage around the world, specialising in taking important astronomical readings using a sextant. After Cook died he helped lead the ships on the remainder of their course, also completing Cook's account of the voyage. He continued his career in the Navy, reaching the rank of post-captain, commanding several ships and serving in the American War of Independence.