Contents
Jeanne Baret
The first woman known to have completed a voyage around the world.
Botanical collecting · Circumnavigation
- Born
- 27 July 1740
- Birthplace
- France
- Died
- 5 August 1807
More people
Jeanne Baret
Jeanne Baret travelled as the assistant of naturalist Philibert Commerson. She boarded a French expedition disguised as a man because women were barred from its ships.
Early life
Burgundy
Born into a rural labouring family.
Plant knowledge
Developed practical knowledge of plants before working with Commerson.
Career
- 1766
Expedition departure
Joined Bougainville’s voyage as Jean Baret.
- 1768
Mauritius
Remained on the island with Commerson after leaving the expedition.
- 1770s
Return to France
Completed her circumnavigation by returning westward.
Journeys & contributions
Botanical collecting
Assisted with gathering and preparing specimens during the voyage.
Circumnavigation
Completed a journey begun under a concealed identity.
Royal pension
Received official recognition for her service.
Beyond work
Mauritius life
Ran a business and married Jean Dubernat before returning to France.
Historical record
Her experience survives mainly through others’ journals and official documents.
Sources & photo credit
Life, career and references ↗National Museum of Natural History — Jeanne Barret ↗Photo: Later engraved depiction; Unkwown. Public domain · Original image. Cropped and displayed in monochrome.
