Matthew Henson and Arctic Exploration

The video explores the story of Matthew Henson, a Black explorer who played a crucial role in reaching the North Pole alongside Robert Peary. Despite his significant contributions, Henson faced racial discrimination and was largely unrecognized during his lifetime. The video highlights Henson's early life, his partnership with Peary, their final expedition to the North Pole, and the subsequent controversy over who reached the Pole first. It also discusses Henson's legacy and the eventual recognition of his achievements.

Who were the two explorers involved in the famous North Pole controversy?

• Matthew Henson and Dr. Frederick Cook

• Robert Peary and Dr. Frederick Cook

• Robert Peary and Ernest Shackleton

• Matthew Henson and Robert Peary

What was a significant challenge Matthew Henson faced during his early life?

• Fear of the sea

• Inability to find work

• Racial discrimination and threats from the KKK

• Lack of interest in exploration

How did Matthew Henson first meet Robert Peary?

• During a previous expedition

• While working in a hat store

• At a university lecture

• At a naval academy

What role did the Inuit people play in Peary and Henson's Arctic expeditions?

• They were unaware of the expeditions

• They were competitors

• They opposed the expeditions

• They provided essential guidance and support

What was one of the major challenges faced during the Arctic expeditions?

• Hostile wildlife

• Extreme cold and dangerous ice conditions

• Lack of funding

• Language barriers

During the final expedition, what was a significant issue between Henson and Peary?

• Peary's refusal to acknowledge Henson's contributions

• A disagreement over navigation routes

• Henson's refusal to continue

• Henson's inability to use a sextant

What was the outcome of the congressional hearing regarding the North Pole expedition?

• Peary was declared the first to reach the Pole

• The hearing was inconclusive

• Cook was declared the first to reach the Pole

• Henson was declared the first to reach the Pole

What recognition did Matthew Henson receive immediately after the expedition?

• He was given a large monetary reward

• He was awarded a medal of honor

• He was largely ignored and received a gold watch

• He was promoted to a high-ranking position

How did the Black community respond to Henson's achievements?

• They ignored his accomplishments

• They held an honorary dinner and demanded recognition

• They were unaware of his achievements

• They criticized his involvement

What was the eventual outcome regarding Henson's recognition as an explorer?

• He was never recognized

• He was recognized immediately after the expedition

• He was awarded a Nobel Prize

• He was posthumously honored and moved to Arlington Cemetery