James Robertson (explorer)

James Robertson (explorer)

James Robertson (June 28, 1742 – September 1, 1814) was an explorer and pioneer active primarily in what is now the State of Tennessee during the second half of the 18th century. An early companion of explorer Daniel Boone, Robertson helped establish the Watauga Association in the early 1770s, and helped defend Fort Watauga from an attack by the Cherokee in 1776. In 1779, he cofounded what is now Nashville, and was instrumental in the settlement of Middle Tennessee.