The Traveller by Andrea Wulf review George Forster’s early travels in Russia at age 10 instilled in him a lifelong enthusiasm for exploration and a deep compassion for people of all cultures and races. During Captain James Cook’s HMS Resolution expedition, Forster distinguished himself by empathizing with Indigenous populations and critiquing the crew’s invasive actions. Despite societal racism, Forster advocated for the “general rights of mankind,” challenging prominent philosophers like Kant for their racial theories.

• George Forster’s childhood travels in Russia sparked his passion for exploration and compassion for diverse cultures.
• As an assistant naturalist on Captain James Cook’s expedition, Forster showed concern for the impact on Pacific island societies.
• Forster became friends with Indigenous people, admiring their cultures and critiquing his crewmates’ actions.
• He challenged the racist philosophies of his time, including those of Kant, and advocated for universal human rights.
• Despite his intellectual contributions, Forster faced personal hardships later in life, including debts and social ostracism.