Franklin's Arctic Expedition Sets Sail

May 19th, 1845

May 19th, 1845

Franklin's Arctic Expedition Sets Sail
How Long Ago?

179 years, 9 months, 24 days ago

Location

Greenhithe, England

Category

Exploration & Discovery

People
  • Captain Sir John Franklin
  • James Fitzjames
  • George Back
  • Henry Torrens
Links & References
Tags

Franklin's Arctic Expedition Sets Sail

Captain Sir John Franklin and his crew departed from Greenhithe, England aboard HMS Erebus and HMS Terror, aiming to traverse the Northwest Passage. The expedition, consisting of 129 men, was motivated by the search for a viable Arctic route and the hope of achieving permanent navigation through North America. Franklin, a seasoned explorer, confidently set out with advanced provisions and equipment, determined to make a significant contribution to maritime exploration. The public and scientific community closely followed their journey.

The expedition aimed to find the Northwest Passage.

Franklin was an experienced Arctic navigator.

Two ships were outfitted with advanced provisions.

The disappearance led to many subsequent search efforts.

What Happened?

Captain Sir John Franklin, a prominent British explorer, embarked on a significant Arctic expedition in 1845. Departing from Greenhithe, England, he commanded two Royal Navy ships, HMS Erebus and HMS Terror, with a crew of 129 men. This venture aimed to navigate the elusive Northwest Passage, a sea route connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans through the Arctic archipelago of Canada. The elusive passage had fascinated explorers for centuries, driven by the economic potential it represented by shortening trade routes.

Equipped with the latest navigational tools, Franklin's expedition sought not only to chart new territory but also to provide valuable scientific knowledge about the Arctic environment. Prior to departure, the ships were extensively outfitted with provisions and sophisticated equipment, intended for a lengthy journey. Franklin's reputation as an experienced Arctic navigator, having led previous expeditions, instilled confidence in the partners and the British public that this attempt would succeed.

As the ships sailed into the icy waters of the Arctic, they carried the hopes of a nation eager to discover new trading routes and establish dominance in exploration. However, the fate of Franklin and his crew would soon become a subject of mystery, as they disappeared from sight, leading to numerous search expeditions that followed, filled with mounting concerns over their well-being and questions about the challenges of Arctic exploration.

Why Does it Matter?

The departure of Franklin's expedition is significant as it highlights the era's exploration spirit, driven by the quest for knowledge and trade expansion. The eventual disappearance of the crews spurred numerous rescue efforts and a greater understanding of the challenges posed by Arctic conditions. This event remains a prominent chapter in the narrative of global exploration and the European imperial ambitions during the 19th century.

Discover More Historic Events from May 19th

Accidents & Tragedies

Helicopter Crash Claims Lives in Iran

May 19th, 2024 0 years ago

A helicopter crash in Iran resulted in the deaths of eight individuals, including President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian. The helicopter was reportedly on a routine flight when it encountered severe weather conditions, leading to the tragic accident. Emergency services arrived at the crash site rapidly but were unable to save those on board. This incident raised questions about air safety protocols and potential operational issues within the country's aviation sector.

Continue Reading
Cultural Traditions

Royal Wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle

May 19th, 2018 6 years ago

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's wedding took place at St George's Chapel in Windsor, marking a significant moment for the British royal family. The ceremony was watched by an estimated 1.9 billion people globally, showcasing the couple's popularity and the modern evolving nature of royal marriages. The celebration was filled with emotional moments, including their heartfelt vows and the presence of diverse guests, highlighting a blend of tradition and contemporary values.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

EgyptAir Flight 804 crashes into Mediterranean Sea

May 19th, 2016 8 years ago

EgyptAir Flight 804, traveling from Paris to Cairo, crashed into the Mediterranean Sea, resulting in the loss of all 66 passengers and crew members on board. The flight lost contact shortly before entering Egyptian airspace. The search and recovery operations yielded debris and personal effects, raising concerns over the safety of air travel and the potential causes of incidents in the region.

Continue Reading
Natural Disasters

Severe Crude Oil Spill in California Coastline

May 19th, 2015 9 years ago

The Refugio oil spill resulted in 142,800 gallons of crude oil being released onto a delicate coastal region in California, which is known for its rich biodiversity. The spill raised significant environmental concerns and mobilized local agencies and volunteers to respond to the contamination. Efforts were initiated to assess the damage and clean up the affected areas in order to mitigate the impact on marine life and coastal ecosystems.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Car Bomb Attack Kills Nine Near Military Complex

May 19th, 2012 12 years ago

A car bomb exploded near a Syrian military complex in Deir ez-Zor, resulting in the deaths of nine individuals. The attack was part of the ongoing violence during the Syrian civil conflict, raising concerns about the increasing severity of the confrontations between government forces and various opposition groups. The bomb detonated during peak hours, targeting a location known for military activity, emphasizing the escalating nature of the conflict and the risks to civilian lives in the vicinity.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Gas cylinder bombs detonate in Brindisi vocational school

May 19th, 2012 12 years ago

In Brindisi, Italy, three gas cylinder bombs exploded outside a vocational school, resulting in the death of one individual and injuring five others. The incident raised concerns about public safety and the potential for ongoing violence in the area. A local high school student, Melissa Bassi, was killed in the attack, leading to heightened emotional responses from the community. Investigation into the motives behind the bombing began immediately as authorities sought to understand the context and background of the event.

Continue Reading