Annie Sargent talks with Elyse Rivin about Jean-François de Galaup, Comte de Lapérouse. He was born near Albi. He became one of France's greatest naval explorers. Louis XVI sent him to finish mapping the Pacific after Captain Cook.

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They cover his forbidden love story. They talk about his humane command style, rare for a naval officer of his time. They also cover the 1788 cyclone that ended his voyage near the Solomon Islands. It remains one of France's biggest maritime mysteries, and search parties still look for answers today. Tune in for a story of ambition, love, and disappearance. Subscribe to Join Us in France so you never miss an episode.

Table of Contents for this Episode




• Today on the podcast: Jean-François de Galaup, Comte de Lapérouse
• Podcast supporters
• Magazine segment
• Adventure Setup
• Why Lapérouse Matters
• Origins in Albi
• Childhood and Education
• Naval Academy to First Battles
• North Atlantic Campaigns
• Humane Commander Reputation
• Rivalry with Britain
• Indian Ocean Expedition
• Forbidden Love Eleanor
• American War Heroics
• Explorer Mindset and Maps
• Name La Pérouse Explained
• Marriage and Royal Mission
• Epic Pacific Route
• Cyclone And Disappearance
• Searches And Legacy
• Eleanor Waits In Vain
• Astrolabe Navigation Tech
• Visiting Albi And Paris
• Final Recommendations
• Thank you Patrons
•  French summer camp for adults.
• Annie's Updates
• Next week on the podcast
• Copyright More episodes about French culture