Polar Pathways: Robert E. Peary's Arctic Expeditions
About the North Pole Expedition
“This time it is a different and perhaps more inspiring story, though the records of gallant defeat are not without their inspiration. And the point which it seems to make in beginning is that success crowned the efforts of years because strength came from repeated defeats, wisdom from earlier error, experience from inexperience, and determination from them all.” - Robert E. Peary in The North Pole, published in 1910
After his series of attempts to reach the Pole, Peary made a final journey to the north, hoping to exceed his “farthest north” of 87 degrees by just a few more degrees. The details planned, the sledges loaded, and his men hardened and ready, the explorer made his last great foray into the frozen wasteland. Again he battled hunger, fatigue, crevasses, open water, and injuries to dogs and team members. However, this journey would not end in defeat. On April 6th, 1909, Peary, Matthew Henson, and their supporting team of Inuit reached the North Pole and the Americans proudly flew their flags. Quotes in this section are taken from The North Pole, published in 1910.
