Arctic exploration is the physical exploration of the Arctic region of the Earth. It refers to the historical period during which mankind has explored the region north of the Arctic Circle. Historical
Patent from King Henry VII, authorizing John Cabot and his sons to explore new lands in the west
Roald Amundsen led the first expedition to reach the South Pole, was the first person to reach both poles, and was the first person to traverse the Northwest Passage.
Robert Peary and sledge party with flags at North Pole. Peary has been claimed to be the first person to reach the North Pole.
Sir William Edward Parry was a Royal Navy officer and explorer best known for his 1819–1820 expedition through the Parry Channel, probably the most successful in the long quest for the Northwest Passa
Portrait by Charles Skottowe
"Das Eismeer" (The Sea of Ice) by Caspar David Friedrich, 1823–4, was inspired by Parry's account from the 1819–1820 expedition. The harsh nature (e.g. the shipwreck) and radical composition, however, caused it to remain unsold until the death of the artist in 1840.
"The Crews of H.M.S. Hecla & Griper Cutting into Winter Harbour, 26 Sept. 1819". An engraving from the journal published in 1821.
HMS Hecla and HMS Fury enter Baffin Bay during the 1824 expedition