Exploration and Mapping of Terra Australis

The transcript explores the history of Australia's discovery and colonization, highlighting European exploration's role. It delves into ancient Greek and Roman speculations about a southern continent, known as Terra Australis. The narrative continues through the Dark Ages and Renaissance, where interest in exploration resurged, partly due to Marco Polo's accounts. These accounts, carried by explorers like Columbus, reignited interest in colonial exploration.

What was the impact of Sir James Cook's claim to Australia?

• It led to the decline of European emigration.

• It caused a war between Britain and other European powers.

• It resulted in the immediate independence of Australia.

• It opened Europe's door to a new wave of emigration.

What did ancient Greek geographers speculate about?

• A northern continent full of riches.

• A southern continent south of the Equator.

• A western continent with mythical creatures.

• An eastern continent with advanced technology.

What name did the Romans give to the speculated southern continent?

• Terra Nova

• Terra Australis

• Terra Incognita

• Terra Mystica

What event led to the decline of speculation about Terra Australis?

• The discovery of America

• The fall of the Roman Empire and the Dark Ages

• The rise of the Roman Empire

• The invention of the compass

What did Marco Polo describe while docked in Sumatra?

• A land far south with golden beaches.

• A land far west with vast deserts.

• A land far east with dense forests.

• A land far north with icy landscapes.

How did maps of the time depict Java and Australia?

• As a series of small islands.

• As part of the African continent.

• As one continent extending to Antarctica.

• As separate islands with no connection.

Whose memoirs helped reignite interest in colonial exploration?

• Christopher Columbus

• Marco Polo

• Vasco da Gama

• Ferdinand Magellan

Which explorers carried copies of Marco Polo's memoirs?

• Christopher Columbus and King Henry of Portugal

• Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan

• Leif Erikson and John Cabot

• James Cook and Amerigo Vespucci