John Lawson (explorer)
John Lawson | |
|---|---|
Possible portrait of Lawson by Godfrey Kneller | |
| Born | 27 December 1674 England |
| Died | 16 September 1711 (aged 36) |
| Cause of death | Ritual torture |
| Known for | Exploration of the Carolinas |
| Notable work | A New Voyage to Carolina |
John Lawson (27 December 1674 – 16 September 1711) was an English explorer, naturalist, and writer. He played an important role in exploring the frontier regions of the Carolinas, publicising his expeditions in a book. He founded two settlements in North Carolina, Bath and New Bern, both located on rivers in the coastal plain. He was murdered by the Tuscarora people which led to the outbreak of the Tuscarora War.