Franklin Expedition and Rae's Findings

In 1845, the British Royal Navy sent two ships, HMS Terror and HMS Arabis, under Sir John Franklin to find the Northwest Passage. Despite initial progress, the expedition went missing. Years later, explorer John Rae discovered evidence from the Inuit that suggested the crew resorted to cannibalism after being trapped in ice. Rae's findings were controversial, with figures like Charles Dickens disputing them. Ultimately, Rae was proven correct, but his reputation suffered.

What was the primary goal of the HMS Terror and HMS Arabis expedition?

• To explore the South Pole

• To establish a new colony in America

• To find the Northwest Passage

• To map the coast of Africa

Why was Sir John Franklin not the first choice to lead the expedition?

• He was too young and inexperienced

• He had a history of unsuccessful expeditions

• He was involved in another mission

• He was not a member of the Royal Navy

What was the last known location of the HMS Terror and HMS Arabis?

• Greenland

• Baffin Bay

• Lancaster Sound

• The Pacific Ocean

What action did the British Admiralty take in response to the missing expedition?

• They sent a rescue mission immediately

• They declared the expedition a success

• They ignored the situation

• They offered a reward for information

How did John Rae adapt to the Arctic environment during his search?

• By avoiding contact with locals

• By relying on British supplies

• By learning from the Inuit

• By using modern technology

What crucial evidence did John Rae find about Franklin's expedition?

• A surviving crew member

• A message in a bottle

• Artifacts and reports of cannibalism

• A map leading to the Northwest Passage

What was the reaction in England to Rae's report on cannibalism?

• It was widely accepted

• It was met with disbelief and controversy

• It was ignored by the public

• It was celebrated as a breakthrough

Who was a notable public figure that challenged Rae's findings?

• Sir William Parry

• Francis Crozier

• Charles Dickens

• Queen Victoria

What did Charles Dickens imply about the Inuit in relation to Franklin's men?

• They were unaware of the expedition

• They helped the crew survive

• They killed Franklin's men

• They guided the expedition

What was the eventual outcome regarding Rae's findings?

• They were never verified

• They were confirmed to be accurate

• They were proven incorrect

• They were dismissed as rumors