Discovery of Scott's Frozen Expedition Team

November 12th, 1912

November 12th, 1912

Discovery of Scott's Frozen Expedition Team
How Long Ago?

112 years, 4 months, 3 days ago

Location

Ross Ice Shelf, Antarctica

Category

Exploration & Discovery

People
  • Robert Falcon Scott
  • Edward Wilson
  • Henry Bowers
  • Lawrence Oates
  • Edgar Evans
Links & References
Tags

Discovery of Scott's Frozen Expedition Team

The frozen bodies of Robert Falcon Scott and his men were discovered on the Ross Ice Shelf in Antarctica during a search mission. Scott was leading the British National Antarctic Expedition and aimed to reach the South Pole. He and his team were found with their sledges and equipment untouched, indicating their final struggle against the extreme conditions of the Antarctic winter. Local efforts to find Scott began after his failure to return, culminating in the recovery of their remains which shed light on the harsh realities of exploration during this era.

Scott aimed to be the first at the South Pole.

The expedition faced extreme weather challenges.

Their bodies were discovered months after they perished.

Journals provided insight into their final days.

What Happened?

Robert Falcon Scott and his team set out on the British National Antarctic Expedition in 1910, with the primary goal of reaching the South Pole. After successfully reaching their destination, Scott and his four companions faced a grueling return trip through severe weather conditions and dwindling supplies. The team’s journey was marked by extreme hardships, including freezing temperatures, blizzards, and physical exhaustion. Efforts to locate Scott and his men began soon after their expected return in early 1912. A search party was organized to traverse the perilous Antarctic landscape, hoping to uncover Scott's fate. On November 12, 1912, the search team found the frozen bodies of Scott, Edward Wilson, Henry Bowers, Lawrence Oates, and Edgar Evans. They were positioned within their tent, preserving their last moments in a scene that spoke volumes of their struggle against the relentless Antarctic environment. Alongside them lay journals that provided a tragic account of their final days, highlighting their determination and the dire circumstances they faced. This discovery offered profound insights into the challenges of polar exploration during the early 20th century.

Why Does it Matter?

The discovery of Scott and his men is significant as it highlights the extreme risks and difficulties faced by early polar explorers. Their tragic end sparked public interest in Antarctic exploration and led to advancements in understanding polar regions. Furthermore, the findings prompted discussions about the safety and preparation of explorers in such hazardous environments.

Discover More Historic Events from November 12th

Accidents & Tragedies

Mid-Air Collision During Dallas Airshow

November 12th, 2022 2 years ago

A Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress collided with a Bell P-63 Kingcobra over Dallas Executive Airport during an airshow. The tragic incident resulted in the deaths of six individuals while showcasing vintage military aircrafts. Eyewitnesses reported the two planes performing in a formation before the collision occurred. The airshow was part of an annual event that celebrates aviation history, attracting large crowds of aviation enthusiasts and families.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Britney Spears Freed from Conservatorship

November 12th, 2021 3 years ago

The Los Angeles Superior Court ruled to end the conservatorship of pop star Britney Spears, which had lasted for 14 years. This decision came after a series of public hearings, a social media campaign, and growing support for Spears to regain control over her personal and financial decisions. Many fans and advocates gathered outside the courthouse, celebrating the news as a victory for Spears and her autonomy. This marked a significant moment in the long-standing legal battle concerning Spears’ life decisions.

Continue Reading
Natural Disasters

Devastating Kermanshah Earthquake Strikes Region

November 12th, 2017 7 years ago

A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.3 struck the border region between Iran and Iraq, specifically affecting Kermanshah province. The quake reached a maximum Mercalli intensity of VIII, resulting in significant destruction. Emergency reports confirmed that at least 410 individuals lost their lives and over 7,000 sustained injuries. The disaster prompted immediate rescue and relief efforts across the affected areas, highlighting the vulnerability of infrastructure in these earthquake-prone regions.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Suicide Bombings in Bourj el-Barajneh, Beirut

November 12th, 2015 9 years ago

Two suicide bombers carried out coordinated attacks in Bourj el-Barajneh, a crowded suburb of Beirut, resulting in the deaths of 43 individuals and injuring over 200 others. The bombers detonated explosives during a busy time, targeting a popular market area frequented by the local population. The attack was claimed by the Islamic State, highlighting the ongoing sectarian violence in Lebanon amidst regional turmoil and the spillover effects of the Syrian Civil War.

Continue Reading
Space Exploration

Philae Lander Touches Down on Comet 67P

November 12th, 2014 10 years ago

The European Space Agency's Philae lander, launched from the Rosetta probe, successfully landed on the surface of comet 67P/Churyumov–Gerasimenko. This historic event marked the first time a probe landed on a comet, enabling extensive research of its surface and composition. The landing occurred after a complex descent that took several hours, allowing scientists to gather vital data about the early solar system. Philae's unique instruments were designed to analyze the comet's surface, which could provide insights into the origins of water and organic molecules on Earth.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Azerbaijani Forces Destroy Armenian Helicopter

November 12th, 2014 10 years ago

An Armenian Mil Mi-24 attack helicopter was shot down by Azerbaijani forces during an engagement on November 12, 2014. The incident occurred in the vicinity of the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region, leading to the deaths of all three personnel on board. The attack helicopter, known for its combat capabilities, was involved in activities related to the ongoing conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan, which has historical roots dating back to the early 20th century. This event highlighted the escalating tensions in the region and the active military exchanges that characterized the ongoing hostilities.

Continue Reading