1874-1922

Ernest Shackleton, born in County Kildare, Ireland, is remembered as one of the most renowned Antarctic explorers of the early 20th century. Shackleton's adventurous spirit and leadership skills came to the forefront during the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration. His most famous expedition, the Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition (1914-1917), aimed to cross the continent from the Weddell Sea to the Ross Sea via the South Pole. However, the expedition faced unprecedented challenges when their ship, the Endurance, became trapped in pack ice and eventually sank. Shackleton's exceptional leadership skills and determination came to the fore as he navigated his crew through treacherous conditions, ultimately ensuring the survival of every member.