Amundsen: Quiet Conqueror of the Polar Regions

This is a story about a little known, yet much misunderstood hero. But more than that it is also a story about a clash of philosophies, the dawn of a new era; a young nation, and a once mighty one - both in their own way experiencing an identity crisis.
In 1911, a young Norwegian explorer called Roald Amundsen reached the south Geographic Pole in a slick, clinical, sportsmanlike operation, having recently also been the first man to sail through the fabled North-West Passage on the other side of the globe. In doing so, he eclipsed a massive, lavishly funded, British polar expedition which was characterised by poor organisation, incompetent leadership and gross negligence that led to tragic suffering and loss of life.
What followed in Britain was nothing less than a public cover-up, and whitewashing of their own expedition’s failures. Amundsen was characterised as a usurper and glory seeker, such that his reputation suffered even in his own fledgling nation of Norway. Undeterred, he would nevertheless push on with his polar ambitions, pioneering technology and protocols that saw him become the first explorer to reach both the north and south poles, the first to fly a plane beyond the arctic circle and even the first to fly an airship over the North Pole.
A very private and driven man unused to public life or promotional spin, his serious and reserved nature won him few friends, while his unromantic writing style and matter of fact lectures hardly fired the popular imagination, hungry as they were for swashbuckling heroics and adventure; such that his stature has been overshadowed by the likes of Scott and Shackleton.
In recent decades, a more sober reflection on what we now call the Heroic age of Polar exploration has begun to restore Amundsen to his pre-eminent position as the greatest of all Polar explorers. He was a man who spent years among the Netsilik Eskimo, studying their survival skills in minute detail, while astutely observing their culture with the greatest admiration and respect; pragmatically and successfully adopting their stone age wisdom while also embracing cutting edge technology. He was a man ahead of his time, yet was wise enough to apply the skills of the ancient ways in attaining his arctic goals.
Join us as we dive into the life and times of Roald Amundsen, quiet conqueror of the earth’s Polar regions.
#amundsen #roaldamundsen #explorer #northpole #southpole #arctic #antarctica #shackleton #norway #hero
All footage used in this montage is for educational purposes. It remains the property of its respective creators, and is gratefully acknowledged in the end credits. Copyright Disclaimer- under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favour of fair use. Please contact us on [e-mail] if you have any concerns about its use.
Content:
00:00
02:20 Fritjof Nansen's Greenland expedition
04:36 Sir John Franklin's expeditions
17:09 Fritjof Nansen's Fram Expedition to the North Pole
23:08 The Belgica Expedition 1897
30:53 Amundsen's North West Passage Expedition
53:50 The British Discovery Expedition
59:45 Ernest Shackleton's Nimrod Expedition
1:05:40 Amundsens Decision to head South
1:12:02 Scott v Amundsen- the race is on
1:27:35 Scott's push for the Pole
1:37:50 Amundsen's Maud Expedition
1:39:50 Lincoln Elseworth and The Dornier flights
1:41:42 The Norge Airship Expedition
1:45:28 Closing Remarks
ERRATA / CORRIGENDA:
1. In the introduction (only), the south pole conquest is mentioned as happening in 1912, instead of 1911. Oops.
2. At 29:40 the narrator says the sun returned in June. in Antarctica the sun actually returns in September
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For resources, links to my other videos, merchandise, the latest social media posts and podcast links, please visit my Heroes and Legends Website: www.heroesandlegends.com.au

[@doubleyell_]

Amundsen: First to undisputedly reach the North Pole First to undisputedly reach the South Pole First to traverse the Northwest Passage solely by boat I feel like he should’ve at least been mentioned in history class

[@outlawJosieFox]

Well I guess you must be an American. Of course we Brits have heard of him lol. He won didn't he ?

[@CJM-rg5rt]

​​@@outlawJosieFoxwell the other team was British so it makes a bit more sense. Kinda coming off as a snobby stereotype, especially with that "lol" It sucks that we weren't taught about him but it's not like something else didn't take its place. I hear they even teach that Scott was the better of the two... lol.

[@thewidow7864]

i't not on the interest of the perfidiopus albion that you know him

[@pepeepupoo]

He was a snake. There is a reason he doesn't matter. That Scott expedition gave us more scientific data on the poles than we've had since.

[@kenreeve6549]

Incredibly good ,no stupid gimmicks or loud music 10/10

[@heroesandlegends]

Thanks so much! Hopefully getting better as i go! I appreciate your support!

[@JoeBamaSmokesCrack]

Also, no ridiculous and nasally American accent

[@DinoFuzz1988]

yes, amazing!! can't stand when things in the bg try to steal your attention.

[@christophercunningham963]

YES!!!

[@Jaggerbush]

Oh you said it. I gave up on a couple of these bc of the music.

[@Lakridza67]

My grandmother was born into the Amundsen family. We inherited some things from the family. He was a great man. I am proud to bear the name Amundsen myself!

[@parkviewmo]

How wonderful to see your post! You should be rightly proud of your family member. It is good to know that you are still honoring his life and work!

[@claudettedelphis6476]

Congratulations to your exceptional family, a treasure to the world.

[@Killjoy_Mel]

Proud? You were born into the family, you have done nothing to bandy the name around as a badge of honour. Not saying it to be mean, but if you have family artifacts or even curiosity about natural exploration yourself, make your inherited name proud.

[@Lakridza67]

@@Killjoy_Mel lol, thanx for the laughs

[@stephenburnage7687]

I was born in Britain and went to school in England, where we were taught how Scott was a hero and Amundsen had somehow cheated Scott of his prize that he deserved. Sometime later (in my 30's) I had the great privilege to live and work in Norway (learning to cross country ski while there) and then I got it! Amundsen and the Norwegians were the real deal, bought up on ski's and the snow from an early age - whereas Scott's team was bungling through, with misplaced Boys Own images of heroism. The Brit's of that generation should be ashamed for how they trashed Amundsen's reputation. Conversely, both in Norway and elsewhere, Shackleton is venerated as an extraordinary hero and yet he barely gets much recognition in the UK.

[@Half_Finis]

as a norwegian that was apperantly asleep in history class, thanks for this video it was amazing :)

[@heroesandlegends]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@paganpoetprophet6441]

I know that feeling , was a good video indeed

[@pabloperez4063]

We all wake up sooner or later

[@srobertweiser]

C'mon dude, I'm American and I'm familiar with Roald Amundsen. Although my grandpa's mom was from Norway. Fun fact: I've been told by more than one person who was into Norwegian black metal that I looked exactly like Varg Vikernes when he waged his campaign of terror.

[@rolfjohansen5376]

@@srobertweiser What kind of music are you performing? - death metal ! who is the singer? - he is dead

[@allancrow134]

Amundsen's story is my favorite of all the turn-of-the-century polar explorers. What a life of adventure he lived. Legend.

[@jodysanders6445]

1,900’s

[@jodysanders6445]

Or 20th century

[@johnnimbus8761]

I live in Tasmania where there is a public sculpture of Amundsen and a street named after him in the capital Hobart.

[@claudettedelphis6476]

So wonderful to honor such a great man who changed the world.

[@mariemoulton6413]

When visiting my relatives in Sweden. I took a train to Oslo and went to see the Fram ship and the ship that he sailed through the North West Passage. It was the highlight of my trip. This was a great documentary.

[@heroesandlegends]

Thanks for sharing! Awesome!

[@cattymajiv]

I'd like to see that. In my hometown of Winnipeg Canada the museum has a lifesized replica of an old ship. I can hardly believe that even 1 person could survive on it. But it's pretty cool, and it's only a replica. The real Fram would be something!

[@sommeone4582]

@@cattymajivdefinitely worth the visit

[@chriskeene241]

As a child I remember vividly doing a school project on Robert falcon scott. I can always remember feeling that Amundsen had robbed Scott of the pole and felt he was an unsavoury character. Only later in life did I learn more about Amundsen and how great a man he was, I also learn a lot more about Scott and how he was a difficult character and quite a lier. I’m glad I learnt the truth.

[@heroesandlegends]

I had the exact same experience at school, then i read Roland Huntford's book and saw the whole thing with fresh perspective. Hopefully in this video i was a little more balanced, but the evidence is definitely not kind to Scott

[@chriskeene241]

@@heroesandlegends my mentor was the head instructor at Scott base and he was calling Scott a complete lier.. he said that storms in Antartica only last three days as the constant high pressure over the pole always pushes the storms off very quickly. He has spent a lot of time down there probably more than anyone. It gave me an interest in learning more. Great documentary you made thank you

[@chriskeene241]

@@heroesandlegends sir Edmund Hillary is my hero of hero’s. Such a humble man I was even lucky enough to meet him a number of times. Have you done a documentary on him?

[@heroesandlegends]

No but thanks for the idea! So many heroes, so little time!

[@chrissmith3509]

@@chriskeene241 Wasn't Hillary an H?

[@prebenroll6074]

As most Norwegians I've always had a small sense of pride in the story of Amundsen. You just made that sense bigger! Thank you for a great documentary

[@heroesandlegends]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@cantfindmykeys]

Be proud of Thor Heyerdahl, too!

[@freeagent8225]

When I go skiing touring in Australia I always carry a Norwegian flag as I won't freeze to death in my tent..

[@trevormiles5852]

Ashamed to say have not heard in depths of his exploits. Not too proud to say, i have learned something and will dig for more information. Thank you Heroes and Legends.

[@freeagent8225]

@@trevormiles5852 Dont visit Norway before more research. Lol.

[@janhanchenmichelsen2627]

Fun family fact: My grandfather (b. 1903) was a chauffeur for shipowner Halvorsen. He drove Amundsen to the Bergen quay where he joined the Latham crew for his final expedition.

[@heroesandlegends]

Wow, its incredible to connect with people all over the world and their stories, through making these videos! Thanks for sharing that, and i hope you enjoyed the video!

[@janhanchenmichelsen2627]

@@heroesandlegends I sure did. Some inaccuracies and misunderstandings, and the video coverage is definitely a bit strange here and there. But such a nice effort overall. And you understood that Amundsen never was an uncontroversial person in Norway. A flawed hero. But maybe you are too hard on Scott? There are multiple reasons for him doing what he did. He was a stubborn man who made major mistakes operating his miniature class society in Antarctica, but some newer research could indicate that the pendulum swinged too far to the other side when the historians finally decided to crack the Scott myth.

[@srobertweiser]

I went to school with a Halvorsen.

[@srobertweiser]

@@janhanchenmichelsen2627That's how those pendulums usually swing, don't they? From one extreme to the other.

[@mimiwonder]

Fun fact: no one cares.

[@thebotformalityknownasdale2564]

I have a great deal of respect for any man who understands and values the knowledge and intelligence of the indigenous people with a blend of his Norwegian way of life that workes . Bravo sir where ever you are !

[@MaceWinduDuHuen]

grave

[@TS-qd2uj]

An absolute must watch documentary on Amundsen. What a truly great explorer he was. Thank you for this fantastic documentary.

[@heroesandlegends]

Thanks for your generous praise!

[@Roylamx]

I 100% agree! While I love winter sports, I don't like the cold! I don't even like to take a cold shower!!!! Very nice documentary, who is the narrator? Very well done!!!

[@vincentdevitt7685]

Brilliant ! Great that you mentioned the native People of the Northern regions who inspired Amundsen and bestowed their knowledge to him on how to dress , travel And survive in unforgiving conditions , to me they are the true Hero's !

[@heroesandlegends]

Absolutely! I couldn't agree more! Thanks so much for viewing my work and sharing your thoughts

[@cattymajiv]

It's tragic how those great people have been treated by their governments though, both the US and Canadian ones continue to neglect their needs, even if they have stopped the outrageous abuse they first subjected them to.

[@Volcano-Man]

I have an original painting of Amundsen, Bjaaland, Hanson, Hassel and Wisting standing at the South Geographical Pole. Bjaland had skied all the way from Framheim to the Pole, '...To ensure the dogs had 'something to follow - me! ...', he then skied all the way back to Framheim. There again he was an Olympic skieer!

[@Magik1369]

Excellent documentary on Amundsen and his amazing achievements. Amundsen was superior to other explorers in that Amundsen understood the science of risk management. That is, he analyzed and planned for risk in advance and then mitigated the risks with multiple redundant risk mitigation strategies. This was Amundsen's advantage over the others.

[@heroesandlegends]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@chirsbom337]

Hjalmar Johansen might have had a word against that. Amundsens first attempt at the south pole almost ended in disaster, and he left his crew to fend for themself getting back to the cabin. He had been told by Johansen that it was too soon.

[@heroesandlegends]

@@chirsbom337 Indeed. Huntford mentioned in his book that there was a bit of alpha male rivalry possibly unfolding in Framheim prior to the first attempt, with Johansen consistently trying to undermine Amundsen's leadership. As an outsider I can only conclude that Amundsen's treatment of Johansen was severe and excessive - including after the expedition, no doubt having an effect on Johansen's later tragic death. Was it pure jealousy and failure to admit his own moment of weakness, or a decisive action to prevent a mutiny, disharmony or collapse of order which might have had dire consequences for everyone? Certainly Amundsen had read much about prior British failures of command, and his own Belgian experience would have left a heavy impression too. The debate continues to this day. Thanks for posting. Others have raised the same issue and I'd be glad to read the perspective of Norwegians themselves too.

[@Ihaaah]

@@heroesandlegends

[@relentlessrhythm2774]

I'm so fascinated by anything to do with Antarctica! I even named my cat after Amundsen.

[@kezsovreign]

In a league of his own! Much respect to Amundsen and Dr. Cook ❤

[@Ihaaah]

A deceased neighbor of mine, who had become well acquainted with Amundsen, he spoke very warmly of him, he said that Amundsen could have ruled the world, he had been the only one who had managed it. The neighbor was Nils Vollan, captain of Sjøliv, the seal catcher who saved Amundsen and his crew after the Latham expedition in 1925.

[@heroesandlegends]

Thanks for sharing! I hope i did him justice!

[@joroche2948]

He was way ahead of his time I would have followed him wherever he went . Such an amazing man a true legend

[@Nvwheeler]

I remember reading about Amundsen as a child. I was fascinated by his expeditions. Thank you for creating this wonderful documentary

[@heroesandlegends]

Thanks so much for viewing!

[@peterabild1123]

One of the best documentaries on the subject.

[@heroesandlegends]

Thanks so much for your generous comment!

[@ciberbri59]

The greatest arctic explorer of all time. So HARD on the unbounded British naval ego too.

[@kitrichardson2165]

What a great story. It is funny how people romanticized Scott for his failure and in some ways gave him more respect and acknowledgment and somebody who actually prepared correctly and pulled off the achievement. Great story, just when you think you know it, somebody comes along like the people who did this video, and show you that the truth is never what it seems

[@KentJohnson123]

The cover-up is still causing wrong-headed handling of things to this day I'm sure!

[@donaldbraugh2314]

I believe most people thought Scott had different aims, little experience in Dog use and horrible weather along with bad luck due to the men who were siroter to meet him choose for various reasons not to come. He did use bad food for the journey, and that could be poor planning, but he did what he knew.

[@cattymajiv]

@@donaldbraugh2314 I don't under stand "siroter" is it a Norwegian word? Do you mean they were "supposed" to meet him?

[@cattymajiv]

Success or failure in those days were much more about luck than planning or skill. As has been said, Scott used the knowledge that existed then, due to the folly of all Europeans. They all had slipshod operations! So yeah, he made awful decisions, but it's not entirely his fault.

[@TheTrevelyansway]

Man in present accomplishes nothing in comparison but judges great explorers of history.

[@GermanShepherd1983]

I've always laughed about the way the British try to portray Scott as some sort of hero. Scott just plain screwed up and killed his party.

[@SueFerreira75]

When I was 9, in 1956, my school class was taken to the movie theatre in Gloucester, UK to see the film "Scott of the Antarctic", with the intention of imbuing us young uns with patriotic fervour and a dose of heroism. I remember sitting there watching the portrayal of Scott as the hero dragging ponies across the Antarctic ice and thinking "this man is an absolute fool".

[@cattymajiv]

@@SueFerreira75 That was my reaction as a Canadian kid too. Even I knew that horses are not suitable for that climate! Even Icelandic ponies would die, pretty much all at once, so that a lot of meat would be wasted as well. But then I've always seen the "Spirit Of Exploration" as a kind of craziness anyway. Pursuit of adventure is fine, but when it puts at risk the lives of others, and the security of families back home, then it's irresponsible as heck! IMHO it is indeed crazy.

[@ladythalia227]

Yeah. Scott’s problem was his massive hubris

[@ronaldsmith4153]

I am in awe at well-organized the Amundsen expiditions were. Amundsen was a seasones arctic explorer and meticulous planner. He deserves a world of credit for his Antarctic expeditions succes.

[@parkviewmo]

These epiditions took place in my mother's childhood. I listened to her stories with a fascination at her excitement at these men's adventures, and hearing word of them on the radio. This documentary gives such a clear comparison of how the strategy used by each and humility of Admensen in listening to the people who lived under these extreme conditions. YOU are such a good storyteller, giving context and color in the script and real interest apparent in your voice that you have spoiled me for other documentaries. That you for a clear-eyed presentation and a well-told story!

[@heroesandlegends]

Thanks for watching! I really appreciate your generous comment!

[@apollocobain8363]

We know almost nothing about Henry Hudson -- his life, his motivations -- so Amundsen's story suggests realistic ways to fill in the gaps. Grateful for docs like this one that stick to the inspiring facts.

[@jeremita0]

High quality documentary! Thank you very much for taking your time to make it.

[@heroesandlegends]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@davidhewson1234]

Just love your documentary. These guys were tough, hard headed and corageous. Politicians fade into oblivion in comparison. Took another 30ish yrs to climb Everest. Thank you. Dave

[@heroesandlegends]

Thanks! Appreciate the support!

[@Arjen900]

Highly underrated documentary in terms of views. Hope you keep up these long uploads. Maybe the Dutch explorer Willem Barentsz would interest you.

[@heroesandlegends]

Thanks for the suggestion, and thanks for your support !

[@giohenrik9071]

Fantastic documentary! Thank you for your appreciated efforts. The discovery and history channels should learn from this

[@heroesandlegends]

Wow, that's very generous! Thank you so much!

[@theshirehighlander7292]

History channel is busy with Storage Wars and Pawn shop shown😂

[@louise_rose]

Excellent approach, this digs beneath the surface of adventure to illuminate how the approach to voyages of exploration changed over time! The paradoxical role of the Royal Navy in both funding and manning many of these journeys *and* sometimes blocking the captains and explorers from making rational decisions, insistence on military rank and hierarchy etc (especially noticeable in Scott's last expedition) is rarely touched on like this in most books about polar exploration. :) Scott, Amundsen and Shackleton together make an intriguing trio, and the contrasts between them as leaders, managers and explorers help bring out both the challenges and the limitations of these decades of change from the Victorian to the modern age. Scott comes across as more hamstrung by the limitations and norms of Victorian Britain than the other two, he was also the one who had the most scientific commitments on board for his programme - while Amundsen went with only one goal: to reach the south pole as the first and then return back alive. Amundsen's planning was simpler, clearer and more determined....more modern in every way, and of course he and his men knew a lot more about snow, skiing and dogs than Scott's team. Nevertheless, he as well took serious risks - he was travelling with dogs through an uncharted territory, no one had any idea of the shape of the mountain range he would have to cross to get to the pole (what if it had been 6.000 metres tall?) or just how enduring the dogs were going to be. But no one died, and nothing in Amundsen's book about his journey suggests he thought they were likely to die. Things essentially went according to plan (it should be noted that his original plan had been for the North Pole, and refashioning it in mid step to fit a land journey down to the South Pole speaks volumes about his capacity as a careful and realistic planner!). After he returned home, he sometimes had the thankless task of fighting a dead man who was also a more powerful and evocative writer than himself. I'm from Sweden myself, so I've never been prone to underestimating Amundsen. He is obviously a Nordic hero, and he has always loomed as large to me as the other two (Shackleton 1914-16 is the most fascinating of these early Antarctic journeys in human terms, and I've known about it since I was like eight years old: it's also the one that was best photographed, thanks to that brilliant Australian guy). Arctic and Antarctic journeys remain absorbing right up to the present, for so many reasons...Many thanks for this powerful documentary!

[@heroesandlegends]

Thanks for your generous feedback! I'm glad you found it adequately honoured this great explorer!

[@louise_rose]

@@heroesandlegends You're welcome! I can recommend Doris Lessing's essay about Scott and Amundsen, and the mental climate that seems to have surrounded Scott's expedition and ultimately led to a heroic failure - printed as a postscript to her novel "The Making of the Representative for Planet 8".

[@dickdorshorst5306]

The way this story is told is wonderfull .

[@heroesandlegends]

Thankyou for your generous comment! It means a lot!

[@cateadie1]

Yes it’s just so interesting and well written-and being without any music is the reason why I can watch it till the end- far less exhausting!

[@heroesandlegends]

Thanks for watching!

[@refuge42]

This is a superb documentary on Admundsens life and accomplishments. Nicely balancing the credits due him from the British tendency to hoard the spotlight. I like the focus on the different management style and tactics he employed to achieve his goals over the British admiralty style with its well-known shortcomings posturing and bad decisions often made by uninformed pandering to the crown. I especially liked this documentaries system of adding information or corrections at the bottom of the page. I would like to have read some references to Shackleton's famous Endurance expedition and more comments on this last great age of exploration and the other characters of that age. This really is a first-rate documentary and I will share it and encourage people to watch it thank you so much for a job well done.

[@heroesandlegends]

I'll get to Shackleton, don't worry! The Endurance expedition was later and so had no bearing on this project (goodness knows I already go down too many rabbit holes as it is!). WRT references, i have so little precious time to do these videos, and often find myself jumping from a book to a url, to a documentary, even wiki articles just to tie in the many details i need, so unlike my academic career, referencing would be chaotic and very time consuming. Where a particular book is of significance, i do mention it, or offer links to downloading originals on the H&L website where available, so do check out those resources that i think are of particular interest to viewers. Thanks so much for your generous comments. I appreciate your supporting my work.

[@cattymajiv]

It's just astounding that in spite of their stupidity the British still managed to "conquer the world", but the long term results have been just disastrous for the people and places involved. The amount of suffering caused by it, and by the Spanish, has been unbelievable! I am so ashamed of my ancestors! As today's Russians should be.

[@ute.fritzkowski]

Very good documentary. I read a lot about Amundsen, and I always admired his approach of being well prepared, learning and improving.

[@heroesandlegends]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@lindamarsh6711]

Well done. Thank you for bringing this biography to our attention. I quite enjoyed the honesty and refreshing truth about men who were driven by an all consuming need to discover the unknown. They don’t make them like they used to. The British seemed to have a need to waste humanity in their endeavours throughout history. They weren’t alone in this but surely proved it in the rush for the poles and in World Wars. Pride goes before the fall!

[@heroesandlegends]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@fringedwellermccatintyre730]

Thoroughly engrossing! Thank you.

[@heroesandlegends]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@BlueSky16161616]

Excellent doc. Clear and concise.

[@heroesandlegends]

Thank you kindly!

[@brucegoodall3794]

These brave and hearty men blow my mind! Makes me sad to see what men have become today.

[@douglasstemke2444]

As a kid I was fascinated about the rare between Amundsen and Scott. Nice to get the detailed background.

[@heroesandlegends]

Glad i could help! A fascinating story to be sure! Thanks for watching!

[@GuyandJo]

Great documentary, a thorough and insightful appraisal of Amundsen’s life and showing the contrast of his expedition approach to the ill conceived, customary approach to polar exploration of the time. Many thanks.

[@heroesandlegends]

I greatly appreciate your generous review! Thanks for watching!

[@tybaltyrant1]

Keep making clear, collected, knowledgeable content like this and ... I hope you will explode on the algorithm. Have shared it on my Twitter. Aussie Asians are interested in non-biased history like this.

[@heroesandlegends]

We all have at least a bit of bias- the telling of history especially carries its fair share- me included. But if i can ask thoughtful questions, challenge some preconceptions, provoke some meaningful discussion, and occasionally get a bit cheeky, then at least I'll have a bit of fun and take people along for an interesting ride too. Thanks so much for being generous with your praise!

[@reginaldoppenheimer334]

Absolutely awesome documentary and what an accomplished fellow he was.

[@hwplugburz]

One of my best friends is the greate-grand-daughter of Jørgen Stubberud who was Amundsens carpenter on the trip. He drew and prefabricated the framheim camp-hut, but also buildt Amundsens home at Svartskog Uranienborg just outside Oslo. This is where many of the sceenes in documentarys and films about Amundsen is filmed as it is now an open museum from April to September. We also got free entry when I took her to the Fram museum in Oslo some years ago (where the Gjøa is also now located). Polar exploration as been a favorite topic of mine for as long as I can remember, and I have read several books, seen every documentary film and drama series I`ve come across on the topic. Including modern norwegian polarexplorars journies to retrace theyr steps, (like Børge Ausland at Frans Josef land, and reinactments of the suothpole race that has been done). And also including UK imports of ducumentarys and series on Shacleton (a true hero). I`ve also read Amundsens own book on the southpole trip, and at the museum I came across a collected wersion of the entire crews diarys. You are exatly right ofc, about the clash of philosophies. This video is Exelent! 👍 I subscribed to your channel for it 😊 (there was even information here I was not awere of prior of the northwest passage trip) So Thank You 😊 for this exelent entertainment a -18,3 c wintersnight in Norway

[@heroesandlegends]

Wow, this is just one of the many wonderful reasons I love making these documentaries! Thanks so much for your generous comment and for sharing that amazing story! One question that has been circulating on these comment threads is the nature of Johansen's relationship to Amundsen. Was Amundsen jealous of his knowledge and reputation, or was Johansen really trying to sabotage Amundsen's leadership, necessitating the severe punishment he received. Its a tragic part of the story that everybody has opinions about, and it would appear to be a stain on Amundsen's character, but it would be helpful to hear the views of people closer to them both. Thanks for joining the discussion!

[@hwplugburz]

@@heroesandlegends Thank you for replying 😊 Yes, thats a wery interesting question for sure. My subjective opinion on the matter is that Johansen saw what he felt was a big crack in Amundsens leadership when he left him and Presterud behind to fend for them self on a sled Without a primus(heatingscoure), and therby left them in real danger of frostbite, hypotermia and theyr lifes. Johansen was after all the moest seasoned veteran, and what he and Nansen went thrue and survived on Frans Josel land was pritty insane. Presterud was the least experienced (if I remeber corret), and maybe Johansen jugded he would be done without his help? And his words : "you dont abandon your men", and "This was panic" makes me think Amundsen probebly made an error of jugdement out there in the cold. But again the condision was absolutely extreme at that point, so maybe he felt going back for them would put the entire expedision at risk.. idk.. (and i dont feel qualified to judge him from my armchere 112 years later.. ) Amundsen was surtainly a proud man tho, and ofc he could not stand for such a challenge to his leadership. So he did what he did, (he must have loved writing letters and messages ). In modern psychology I guess they would call this rulership techniques. I do not think Johansen deliberatly wanted to sabotage Amundsens leadership... He had no reason to. I think he experienced a real bad deal out there in the ice, that made him see him in a new light and question him more. As for Amundsens jealousy, i have no idea or basis for speculation.. (could be, could be not..) PS; loved your Captain Cook and Magelan videos as well btw 😊👍

[@heroesandlegends]

Thanks for those insights- its great to fill in missing details when we can. I'm glad you're enjoying the channel!

[@grazzinoelindallas8295]

Thanks s'o much! Your clarifying and sympathetic rerendering of the scott tradgedy [for his men]-"Im just going outside, I may be some time"...

[@rudywoodcraft9553]

Magnificent video--I've read alot about Shackleton--Amundsen is indeed impressive!

[@heroesandlegends]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@butterfacemcgillicutty]

Amazing video. These artic expeditions just had to be worse than exploring the moon. At least in space you're in a big suit that completely protects you. And living in the Lunar lander wasn't comfortable but had to be better than in a tent in the artic. Incredible video!

[@refuge42]

The Mercury, Gemini &Apollo astronauts would fit right in this age of exploration. The Apollo 13 especially given how close they came to not getting home

[@cantfindmykeys]

Norwegians have a real spirit for adventure. Tough as nails and very determined. One of my heroes is Thor Heyerdahl so I'm interested in this Amundsen guy. He sounds like another resourceful and pioneering fellow. After this, will you consider a documentary about the voyage of the Kon Tiki expedition?

[@heroesandlegends]

So many heroes! maybe some time in the future.

[@cantfindmykeys]

@@heroesandlegends Thanks.. Either way I love your channel. Cheers!

[@richardm6208]

Highly recommend the book Amundsen and Scott: The Last Place on Earth by Roland Huntford

[@cantfindmykeys]

@@richardm6208 Thanks!

[@user-pt1ow8hx5l]

Interesting you have picked up on Heyerdal. Care to elaborate?

[@freeagent8225]

I worked my passage on the polar bus in 1992 from Tromso to Svalbad , had to camp for 18 days for the return. MS Norsel, a fine ship.

[@brucegoodall3794]

This documentarian is the best 👌 of all I've ever seen heard. This channel is my favorite of all. I'm very happy It was presented to me by Google/KZbin.

[@heroesandlegends]

Wow, thank you! I hope i can keep it up! I really appreciate your support!

[@JohnThreeSixteen918]

Excellent production. Thank you. I have longed for a good summary of the polar exploits. You delivered such in brilliant fashion without any hype or credence to erroneous British claims or pride. 👏

[@heroesandlegends]

Thanks for watching and for your support!

[@rachelandrews8255]

Love the longer videos keep it up

[@heroesandlegends]

Glad you like them! Can't help myself- so many rabbit holes to go down! Thanks for your support of my channel!

[@ScottHaley12]

Once again...SUPERB presentation!!! Thank you.

[@heroesandlegends]

Thank you for watching!

[@MackerelCat]

You do such a great job illuminating the lives of these amazing historical figures. Thanks so much!

[@heroesandlegends]

Glad you like them! Thanks for watching!

[@krootmen]

Really love your work, i love the context you give in small, beautifully added tangents. it adds context that brings the info on the men to life. !!!!!

[@heroesandlegends]

Glad you like them! Some do, some don't, but i personally love the rabbit holes, so i take you along with me.

[@sealanderadventures]

Very comprehensive and well done video about Amundsen. This video has the most details about famed explorer than any other KZbin video. Thanks for creating informative content👍

[@heroesandlegends]

Wow, thank you! I appreciate your generous comment!

[@legopunk2655]

Amundsen is so underrated. First to the south pole, likely first to the north pole, first to do both. Unlike everyone else he was smart enough to adopt the Inuit survival tactics and use dogs, which definitely led to his success at the south pole. I think Shackleton's story is just so unbelievably miraculous that his name alone outshined Amundsen's. At the end of the day though, Amundsen was BY FAR the most successful explorer of his era.

[@heroesandlegends]

Agreed! Thanks for watching!

[@lauragranger9813]

Really enjoyed that! Thanks for all the effort that clearly went into it. Just came up in recommendeds, already subscribed and certainly recommending. Can't wait to get stuck into the rest of the channel

[@heroesandlegends]

Awesome, thank you! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@kissi7474]

Very well done, thoroughly enjoyed it! Greetings from Norway 🇳🇴

[@heroesandlegends]

Thank you very much!

[@shaiaheyes2c41]

Amazing! Thank you so much for making this documentary, love from Norway

[@heroesandlegends]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thankyou for watching!

[@lc285]

Great story of this man. Great storytelling telling it.

[@heroesandlegends]

Thanks for watching!

[@Brutaga]

Enthralling… Best documentary I’ve seen in a while.

[@heroesandlegends]

Thankyou!

[@johanweakley2658]

Whst a fantastic documentary. Thanks for presenting such a professional and informative piece of history!

[@heroesandlegends]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching!

[@W5nmwh50]

Excellent documentary. Thank you ❤

[@heroesandlegends]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@penduloustesticularis1202]

Brilliantly well researched, presented and narrated documentary. Perfection. 👍

[@heroesandlegends]

Wow, thanks for such a generous comment!

[@andersestes]

I appreciate the research done her, wich is extensive. The narrative. The great speaking voice : clear, audible, paced. No disturbing music or sound effects. I rather watch your videos than BBC documents is, for theese reasons.

[@heroesandlegends]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you so much. It makes all the hard work worthwhile to read such comments!

[@Philippe_III]

Amazing man. Thanks for this documentary. Great work. At first I was confused with the introduction of film clips and different actors. All in all , I was very impressed and could not stop watching. I recommend it highly.

[@heroesandlegends]

Glad you enjoyed it! As an amateur, solo creator with limited resources I'm doing the best I can with what's out there. I appreciate your taking the time to watch and for such a generous comment

[@perspellman]

Intelligence, respect and humility beats ignorance, arrogance and egotism. The vast contrasts between the approaches of the Norwegian and the British teamleaders for the South Pole expeditions are schoolbook examples in learning basic survival and how to make a better world.

[@adamwalker7726]

Excellent! My favorite history channel. 10/10

[@heroesandlegends]

Wow, thanks! It means a lot to read that. I very much appreciate your support!

[@madzen112]

Keep your Scott and Peary, Amundsen is the greatest!

[@ane-louisestampe7939]

What a pleasure to watch! Those times, when the ships were made of wood and the men of steel. Now it's the other way around 🙃 Let me just add this: I have no doubt that Amundsen, unlike the rest of the world, knew of Carl Petersen. Carl was a Danish cooper living on the West Coast of. He worked as interpreter on 4 expeditions - William Penny 1850-51 - Elisha Kanes 1853-55 - Francis Leopold McClintock 1857 - Isaac Israel Hayes 1860-1861 And it's obvious to me that Amundsen had read his books: In 1857 his book about Penny's and Kane's expeditions came out, and in 1860 one about McClintock. He could read Danish, you see, not many can 😉 Thanks for a great documentary

[@chirsbom337]

Most if not all scandinavians, plus icelandics, can read danish. We all, minus the icelandics, have more of a strong dialect than a separate language. The verbal is more different than the writing. The icelandics on the other hand still speak "viking".

[@cattymajiv]

As of July 18, 2023 Wikipedia has no listing for Peterson. Too bad! The do have a listing for a Carl Petersson though, with 2 S's. A different guy, but a fascinating one.

[@sevengoblins]

A great documentry. Thanks

[@heroesandlegends]

Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching!

[@AK.]

Amazing work! Very in depth, I learnt a lot. Such an inspiring story!

[@heroesandlegends]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@christopherlynch4347]

Well done, thorough and packed full of information.

[@heroesandlegends]

Much appreciated! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@cbpaton53]

Fram can be seen fully restored in the Fram museum in Oslo. An excellent exhibit, where the account of Åmundsen and Scotts expeditions are described. Excellent video, thanks :) Very small comment: Aamundsen (Åmundsen) is pronounced Ormundsen :)

[@heroesandlegends]

Thanks for the info! But us Aussies, we pronounce everything wrong! I think i got his first name reasonably accurate yes?

[@cbpaton53]

... apologies, i was wrong. its Amundsen and not Åmundsen, so you were ok with the pronunciation :) A is pronounced Ah and Å is pronounced Or in Norwegian. Roald is Rowal.

[@timtrainor9720]

This is a "Top of the line" video, very well done, tyvm.

[@heroesandlegends]

Thanks!

[@normanvanrooy3113]

Wonderful adventure doc...hats off to you sir for a beautiful rendition of an amazing man and his intelligent vision for uncharted explorations into the most challenging regions of earth with a humility to accept the superior technologies of the native Inuit people who were looked down on by the more erudite and sophisticated experts. Bravo for a well crafted film. I could not find your name anywhere and chock that up to my poor computer search skills.

[@heroesandlegends]

So nice of you, thanks for your generous comment!

[@certuv]

Very watchable , thank you

[@heroesandlegends]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching!

[@jhuircalaf]

Brillante trabajo, felicitaciones!!!

[@heroesandlegends]

Muchas gracias!

[@Gribbo9999]

Thank you. Great summary of early polar exploration!

[@heroesandlegends]

Glad you liked it!

[@thenorseman2804]

Wow! Finding such a quality documentary on youtube was surprising!

[@heroesandlegends]

Thanks for watching, and for your support!

[@corcaighrebel]

Superb documentary, such a pleasure to watch.

[@heroesandlegends]

Many thanks! It really means a lot to recieve such generous praise!

[@jron20r51]

Excellent video, many facts I did not know. The race to the south pole was always my fav adventure.

[@heroesandlegends]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@perperson199]

Your best documentary yet

[@heroesandlegends]

Thanks so much for your support!

[@garmtpug]

A thoroughly enjoyable video! Very well done and extremely interesting. Thank you!

[@heroesandlegends]

Thank you so much! It means a lot to read that!

[@mikebarry2461]

Brilliant stuff really enjoyed it many thanks Great work

[@heroesandlegends]

Glad you enjoyed it, thanks for watching!

[@onumero1212]

Incredibly good videos. I recently stumbled upon your channel and had today a 10 hour drive to do, listened to 6 of these amazing stories you so brilliantly tell. It was a very pleasant drive, thanks!

[@heroesandlegends]

Lucky i didn't put you asleep behind the wheel! Thanks for indulging my meagre attempt at storytelling!

[@bitchslappedme]

The criticisms of Scott were exaggerated and sometimes out of context but I enjoyed the documentary. Thank you.

[@IntheBlood67]

Mos Excellent!

[@chrisblester37]

There is a brass head of him in the Canterbury new zealand museum. As a kid I grabbed his large noise. Now it's a thing every one does for good luck

[@soothinglycool9806]

Love it......came back fatter than when they left. Just awesome.

[@KentJohnson123]

Fantastic story telling. This was my third of your videos, terrific narration and excellent use of visuals. Nice to hear an Aussie slant on history.

[@heroesandlegends]

Thank you very much! It means a lot to get such generous feedback!

[@andersestes]

Great documentary. I call him a real hero and man's man. I'd pick him as a role model over any footballer or moviestar.

[@heroesandlegends]

Thankyou- yes a real hero- flawed in many ways, and paid a heavy price because of it, but i think thats what makes him real, and worthy of admiration.

[@andersestes]

@@heroesandlegends uncompromising. Relentless. Perfectionist. Yet, sensitivite,humble to learn.

[@steverose3318]

Look in the mirror. There is your role model. Your hero. Now go forth with confidence.

[@cypriano8763]

amundsen was a smart, organized and determined dude. the greatest polar explorer by a mile. nansen was another true hero

[@cantfindmykeys]

and Thor Heyerdahl. I love the story of Kon Tiki since I was a child.

[@cakeofthepan2233]

Great work, I will definitely be listening to your podcasts on my way to work 👍

[@heroesandlegends]

Awesome, thank you!

[@LarsAndersenFrihed]

Thanks!

[@heroesandlegends]

Welcome! Thankyou very much for your generous support!

[@perhentzepetersen9310]

Big difference between Amundsen and Scott. Amundsen was all about being WELL prepared. Leaving NOTHING to chance! Scott put all his heart and mind into it on top of guts and bravery, that is for sure. But Antartica does not care about that.........

[@heroesandlegends]

Indeed! Thanks for sharing!