Fictional Entry—Friday, March 22, 2233
James “Jim” Tiberius Kirk was born to George Samuel, Senior (born 2204) and Winona Kirk (born 2208) on this date. James was the couple’s second son, preceded by George “Sam” Samuel Junior. James was named after his maternal grandfather, James, and his paternal grandfather, Tiberius Kirk.
James loved the family history of being descendants of late 19th-century American frontier pioneers and learned as much of the local history as possible. During his early years, he focused on learning about not only Iowa’s history but the lore of the West as well. His hero was Abraham Lincoln. James enjoyed the outdoors and spent as much time as possible camping. During these trips, he would try out various activities, like fishing, rock climbing, and singing around the campfire.
The Kirks traveled to many colonies as part of George, Sr. jobs during James's childhood. During one such travel, James contracted Vegan choriomeningitis. The local medical staff was able to cure the disease, though the bacteria remained dormant in his body for the rest of his life.
In 2246, James’s family moved to the colony on Tarsus IV. A major famine had broken out on the planet. Governor Kodos, the colonies’ leader, killed half of the eight thousand colonists in an attempt to save the colony. James, thirteen at the time, was one of nine eyewitnesses of the massacre. This would be a major turning point in his life. From then on, he dedicated his life to joining Starfleet to prevent these kinds of disasters.
In 2252, James entered Starfleet as a cadet at the San Fransico Starfleet Academy. During his time at the academy, Cadet Kirk was part of the peace mission to Axanar. His actions led to him receiving the Palm Leaf of Axanar Peace Mission medal.
During his time at the Academy, James was promoted to the Command Training Program. On his third attempt, he became the only officer to ever successfully win the Kobayashi Maru scenario. This earned him a commendation for original thinking. It was later discovered that he had secretly reprogrammed the computers to allow for a win condition since he did not believe in “no-win” scenarios.
Once James completed the Command Training Program, he was promoted to ensign and assigned to the USS Republic (NCC-1371). James was transferred back to the San Fransico Academy after his promotion to Lieutenant. There he worked as an instructor.
After graduation, Lt. Kirk was assigned to the USS Farragut (NCC-1647) as a gunnery officer. His hard work and dedication led to him being promoted to the ship’s first officer, making him the youngest person to achieve the position. His father had held the previous record.
In 2265, James assumed command of the USS Enterprise (NCC-1701). The ship, its captain, and the five-year mission became legendary. Many books and videos have been written and created about his captaincy and his time as the commanding officer of the ship.
James T. Kirk was originally believed to have died in the Nexus incident of 2293 while aboard the USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-B). It was later discovered in 2371, he had instead been trapped in a non-linear time bubble inside the Nexus. He died saving the inhabitants of Veridian IV when the bridge he was on collapsed and crushed him. He was buried on Veridian III with a stone plaque marking his gravesite.
Star Trek S02E11 The Deadly Years, S01E29 Operation – Annihilate!, and Star Trek Generations
Television Series / Movie
Desilu Productions / Paramount Pictures
1966 / 1994
This Day in Science Fiction History examines notable events, real and fictional, concerning fantasy and science fiction in various media.