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Today in History: Scott's Expedition Reaches South Pole, Finds Amundsen Ahead

1/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On January 17, 1912, Captain Robert Falcon Scott's Terra Nova Expedition reached the South Pole, only to discover that Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen had arrived 33 days earlier. This disappointment marked a tragic turn for Scott, as his team faced dire conditions on their return journey, ultimately leading to their demise.

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Story summary

On January 17, 1912, Captain Robert Falcon Scott's Terra Nova Expedition reached the South Pole, only to discover that Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen had arrived 33 days earlier. This disappointment marked a tragic turn for Scott, as his team faced dire conditions on their return journey, ultimately leading to their demise.