1. John Mawe was a British mineralogist who became known for his practical approach to the discipline.
10 Facts About John Mawe
1. 2.
John Mawe's missions was to assess the value of the gold and diamond industries that might revitalize Brazil's ailing economy.
3.
John Mawe had reached Cadiz when war broke out between England and Spain, and he was blockaded in the town where he was taken ill and nearly died.
4.
John Mawe sailed from Cadiz in March 1805 for Montevideo, and on reaching that town was imprisoned as an English spy.
5.
John Mawe procured his liberty soon after, but was interned, and did not obtain his release till the capture of Montevideo by William Beresford in 1806.
6.
John Mawe accompanied the expedition under John Whitelocke to Buenos Aires, and on his return to Montevideo purchased a schooner and sailed to Brazil, putting in at various ports on the way, including the island of Santa Catarina.
7.
John Mawe returned to London in 1811, and opening a shop in The Strand, close to Somerset House, became well known as a practical mineralogist.
8.
John Mawe's business was carried on by James Tennant the mineralogist, in partnership with Mawe's widow Sarah until 1840.
9.
Sarah John Mawe had the title of "Mineralogist to Her Majesty" until she retired.
10.
John Mawe appears to have issued at some time Directions to Captains of Ships, Officers, and Travellers; particularly to those engaged in the South Sea Fishery.