Ernest de Koven Leffingwell: Arctic Explorer and Geologist
Arctic explorer who mapped uncharted territories and shaped our understanding of the North.
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Ernest de Koven Leffingwell: Arctic Explorer and Geologist in 10 Minutes
Introduction
Roald Amundsen
Vilhjalmur Stefansson
Ejnar Mikkelsen
The Early Years
Education and Training
First Expedition to the Arctic
Exploration of the North Slope
Discovery of Leffingwell Crater
Mapping of the Arctic Coastline
Contributions to Science
Legacy and Recognition
Final Expeditions
Lesson Details & Resources
In a Nutshell
Arctic explorer and geologist
Lived: 1875 – 1971
Known for his extensive exploration and mapping of the Arctic region
Legacy includes his valuable contributions to the understanding of the geology and geography of the Arctic, as well as his establishment of several research stations in the region.
Timeline of Ernest de Koven Leffingwell: Arctic Explorer and Geologist
Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Graduated from Harvard University
Joined the Harriman Alaska Expedition
Published his first scientific paper on glaciers in Alaska
Became a member of the American Geographical Society
Served as geologist on the Crocker Land Expedition
Published 'The Canning River Region, Northern Alaska'
Led the Corwin-Ledyard Expedition to the Arctic
Established the Naval Petroleum Reserve No. 4 in Alaska
Received the Cullum Geographical Medal from the American Geographical Society
Led the St. Roch Expedition to the Arctic
Published 'The Canning River Region, Northern Alaska: Description of the Brooks Range and North Slope, with a Reconnaissance of the Northern Part of the Romanzof Mountains and the Noatak Valley'
Received the Vega Medal from the Swedish Society for Anthropology and Geography
Served as president of the Arctic Institute of North America
Published 'The Geobotany of the Noatak District, Alaska'
Died in Bethesda, Maryland
Vocabulary List
- Arctic
- Ernest de Koven Leffingwell was a polar explorer who conducted numerous expeditions in the Arctic region.
- Geologist
- Leffingwell was a geologist who studied the geology of the Arctic region during his expeditions.
- Cartographer
- Leffingwell was also a skilled cartographer, creating detailed maps of the Arctic region.
- Exploration
- Leffingwell's expeditions in the Arctic region contributed to the exploration and understanding of the area.
- Ice floe
- Leffingwell encountered many ice floes during his expeditions in the Arctic region.
- Tundra
- Leffingwell conducted research on the tundra ecosystems in the Arctic region.
- Permafrost
- Leffingwell studied the effects of permafrost on the landscape in the Arctic region.
- Glacier
- Leffingwell documented the movement and characteristics of glaciers in the Arctic region.
- Inuit
- Leffingwell interacted with the Inuit people during his expeditions in the Arctic region.
- Magnetic North Pole
- Leffingwell conducted research on the magnetic North Pole during his expeditions in the Arctic region.
Key Facts
This is the information used in the fact matching game
- Ernest de Koven Leffingwell was an American Arctic explorer and geologist.
- Leffingwell was born on June 13, 1875 in Pittsfield, Massachusetts.
- He is known for his pioneering work in mapping and studying the geology of the Arctic region.
- Leffingwell conducted several expeditions to the Arctic, including the famous Stefansson-Anderson Arctic Expedition of 1906-1907.
- He is credited with discovering the Brooks Range in northern Alaska.
- Leffingwell was the first to propose the theory of continental drift in the Arctic region.
- He published numerous scientific papers on his findings in the Arctic, contributing significantly to the field of geology.
- Leffingwell was a member of the American Geographical Society and the American Association for the Advancement of Science.
- He was awarded the prestigious Cullum Geographical Medal by the American Geographical Society in 1914.
- Leffingwell's work laid the foundation for future research in the Arctic region, particularly in the field of glacial geology.
- He was known for his meticulous attention to detail and accuracy in his scientific observations and measurements.
- Leffingwell's expeditions often faced harsh and challenging conditions, but he persevered in his quest for knowledge.
- He collaborated with other prominent Arctic explorers and scientists of his time, including Vilhjalmur Stefansson and Otto Sverdrup.
- Leffingwell's contributions to Arctic exploration and geology continue to be recognized and celebrated today.
- He was a key figure in the exploration and understanding of the geology of the Arctic region during the early 20th century.
- Leffingwell's work helped to establish the geological history of the Arctic, shedding light on its formation and development over millions of years.
- He was known for his innovative use of technology and equipment in his expeditions, including the use of aerial photography and ground-penetrating radar.
- Leffingwell's legacy lives on through his scientific contributions and the impact he made on Arctic exploration and geology.
- He passed away on January 27, 1971 in Washington, D.C., leaving behind a lasting legacy in the field of Arctic exploration and geology.
Analysis & Significance
Major Accomplishments
Ernest de Koven Leffingwell was a pioneering geologist and Arctic explorer who conducted extensive research in Alaska, making significant contributions to our understanding of the region’s geology and environment.
Impact on the World
Leffingwell’s work has had a lasting impact on the field of geology, providing valuable insights into the Earth’s history and processes. His research in the Arctic has also helped inform our understanding of climate change and its effects on polar regions.
Enduring Legacy
Today, Ernest de Koven Leffingwell is remembered as a key figure in the study of Alaskan geology and Arctic exploration. His pioneering work continues to inspire scientists and explorers, and his legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding and preserving our planet’s natural resources.
Ernest de Koven Leffingwell: Arctic Explorer and Geologist Games
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