Matthew Henson

Matthew Henson (1866-1955) was an esteemed African American explorer and author, best known for his pivotal role in the early 20th-century expeditions to the Arctic. Born in Maryland, Henson’s adventurous spirit emerged early in life, leading him to a career as a cabin boy before he became a skilled navigator and essential member of Robert Peary’s expeditions. Henson’s exploration culminated in the 1909 North Pole expedition, where he is widely recognized for being one of the first people to reach the North Pole, alongside Peary. His extensive knowledge of the Arctic and its indigenous peoples, particularly the Inupiat, greatly contributed to the success of these treacherous journeys.

In addition to his remarkable achievements in exploration, Henson was also a talented writer. His seminal work, “A Negro Explorer at the North Pole,” published in 1912, provides a first-hand account of his experiences and challenges faced as an African American in a predominantly white field. Through his writing, Henson not only documented the physical hardships of Arctic exploration but also addressed the racial barriers of his time. His legacy continues to inspire future generations, shedding light on the contributions of African Americans to the field of exploration and the broader narrative of American history.