In 1712, Christopher Hussey of Nantucket harpooned the first sperm whale, marking the beginning of the era of deep-sea pelagic whaling. This event opened new opportunities for the whaling industry, which became a significant economic driver for coastal communities. The pursuit of sperm whales not only impacted marine ecosystems but also influenced global trade patterns and maritime culture.

The initiation of Nantucket sperm whaling in 1712 became central to American maritime mythology, directly inspiring Herman Melville's Moby-Dick. This epic poem explored themes of obsession, nature, and humanity's relationship with the sea, reflecting the whaling industry's impact on American identity and literature.