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What kind of man was he?
FitzRoy was a remarkable individual, known for his intelligence and bravery, as well as his strong ethical principles and chivalrous demeanor. His aristocratic lineage was distinct, as his ancestry linked him to royal blood; had circumstances been different, he might have claimed a title of royalty instead of being known as a nobleman. In addition to these traits, he excelled as a sailor, taking command of the Beagle at just 23 years old and embarking on significant voyages by the age of 26 alongside Charles Darwin.
Despite his many accomplishments, FitzRoy grappled with bipolar disorder, which led to periods of deep melancholy. This internal conflict—between his strict interpretation of the Bible and his pivotal role in supporting Darwin’s revolutionary scientific endeavors—likely contributed to his struggles with depression.
What made him a hero?
At the tender age of 23, FitzRoy embarked on crucial maritime expeditions that would forever alter humanity’s understanding of its place within the natural world. His journey on the Beagle was not just a physical journey but an intellectual one, as he faced the tension between his Christian beliefs and the compelling scientific evidence presented by Darwin.
What was FitzRoy’s finest hour?
One of his most notable achievements was navigating the Beagle, a ship known for its perilous reputation, around the treacherous waters of Cape Horn. Furthermore, he pioneered the establishment of what is now the Meteorological Office, coining the term “forecast” and instituting rigorous scientific methods for meteorological predictions, which ultimately saved countless lives at sea. Notably, during his tenure, many in the maritime community opposed the office’s existence, fearing it could discourage sailors from taking to the sea. His governorship of New Zealand also stands out, where he made significant efforts to safeguard the Maori people from exploitation by land-hungry settlers—a commitment that ultimately led to his recall to London.
Is there anything that you don’t particularly admire about him?
While FitzRoy exhibited many admirable qualities, he was not without flaws; his temper was notably volatile, but aside from this, I find little else to critique.
Can you see any parallels between FitzRoy’s life and your own?
There are no similarities I perceive between my life and FitzRoy’s. My perspective is quite different; I tend to be skeptical of all forms of religion and have no claim to honor, nor do I possess any sailing skills!
Michael Buerk has had a significant career as both a news presenter and foreign correspondent at the BBC. He has hosted BBC Radio 4’s Moral Maze since 1990.
This article was first published in the May 2025 issue of BBC History Magazine.
Source
www.historyextra.com