Robert Falcon Scott

Robert Falcon Scott was a British explorer. He was born in Devon, England, in 1868. He led two expeditions to Antarctica. He reached the South Pole in January 1912, only to find that Amundsen had beaten him there.

Early Life

Scott grew up in a navy family and joined the Royal Navy as a teenager. He was chosen to lead his first Antarctic expedition in 1901. He explored the icy land and became famous. He began planning to be the first to the South Pole.

Big Achievements

Scott and four companions reached the South Pole on January 17, 1912. They were heartbroken to find a Norwegian flag already there. Amundsen had arrived 34 days earlier. On the return journey, Scott and his team all died from cold, hunger, and exhaustion.

Fun Facts

• Scott's team dragged their own sleds instead of using dogs.
• His last diary entry said, 'For God's sake look after our people.'
• His body and diary were found eight months later by a search party.

Did You Know?

Scott became a hero in Britain even though he did not win the race. His bravery and sacrifice inspired people. His journals and letters were published and read by millions.