History of Antarctic Exploration

The early Greeks thought there must be a large landmass in the Southern Hemisphere to counterbalance the weight of the Northern continents. This landmass was called Terra Australis Incognita: Unknown Southern Land. James Cook, from the UK was the first to circumnavigate Antarctica. Upon his return, many boats left for the region to take advantage of the rich stocks of whales and seals that he had observed.

Robert Falcon Scott from the UK and Roald Amundsen from Norway both reached the South Pole in 1911. Amundsen reached the pole first, and returned unscathed at the end of his journey. The same can not be said for Scott who perished along with his four men on the return from the pole.

The International Geophysical Year of 1957 led to the establishment of the Antarctic Treaty of 1959. The main principles of the treaty set aside Antarctica for peaceful purposes and scientific exploration. There are several countries who have laid territorial claims to Antarctica and the Sub-Antarctic islands. The 45 countries that are signatories to the treaty make up 2/3 of the world's population.

 

Thanks to Alyssa for the information on this page