Hubert Wilkins: Unsung Hero of the Golden Age of Polar Exploration

In the annals of polar exploration, names like Roald Amundsen, Robert Peary, and Ernest Shackleton often dominate the headlines. But there is another explorer whose remarkable achievements deserve equal recognition: Hubert Wilkins.

Last Explorer: Hubert Wilkins, Hero of the Golden Age of Polar Exploration

by Simon Nasht

4.4 out of 5

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Wilkins was born in Australia in 1888, and from an early age, he was fascinated by the unknown. He became a journalist and photographer, and his work took him to far-flung corners of the globe. In 1913, he joined Stefansson's Canadian Arctic Expedition, where he gained invaluable experience in polar survival and exploration.

Pioneering Arctic Expeditions

After World War I, Wilkins mounted his own ambitious Arctic expeditions. In 1926, he led the first submarine expedition beneath the Arctic ice pack. This groundbreaking mission provided unprecedented insights into the underwater world and helped pave the way for future submarine exploration.

In 1927, Wilkins embarked on a daring airplane flight over the North Pole. Although he and his crew did not reach their destination, their expedition collected valuable scientific data and demonstrated the feasibility of polar air travel.

Antarctic Explorations

In the 1930s, Wilkins turned his attention to the Antarctic. He led several expeditions that explored the coastline of Antarctica and discovered new territories. Wilkins also conducted aerial surveys of the continent, providing detailed maps and photographs.

During his Antarctic expeditions, Wilkins made significant scientific discoveries, including the presence of large freshwater lakes beneath the ice. He also collected evidence of a potential land bridge between Antarctica and South America.

Aviation Innovator

Wilkins was not only an explorer but also an aviation pioneer. He developed innovative aircraft designs and flight techniques that revolutionized polar exploration. He was one of the first to use aerial photography for mapping and navigation.

In 1931, Wilkins flew over the Greenland ice cap, becoming the first person to cross the Atlantic Ocean by air. He also made groundbreaking flights over the Antarctic, including the first solo flight over the Ross Ice Shelf.

Enduring Legacy

Hubert Wilkins' legacy extends far beyond his own expeditions. His pioneering work inspired countless future polar explorers and scientists. His scientific discoveries contributed to our understanding of the Arctic and Antarctic environments.

Wilkins was also a gifted photographer and writer. His books and articles captivated the public's imagination and helped to raise awareness of the importance of polar exploration.

Despite his remarkable achievements, Hubert Wilkins remains a relatively unknown figure in the history of exploration. It is time to give this unsung hero the recognition he deserves. His story is a testament to the boundless human spirit and the indomitable will to conquer the unknown.

Additional Resources

• Hubert Wilkins on Wikipedia
• Hubert Wilkins: Antarctic Explorer
• Hubert Wilkins: The Forgotten Hero of Polar Exploration

Last Explorer: Hubert Wilkins, Hero of the Golden Age of Polar Exploration

by Simon Nasht

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1345 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	396 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE