Antarctica: A History in 100 Objects

A beautiful and absorbing book published to coincide with the 250th anniversary of the first crossing into the Antarctic Circle by James Cook, "Antarctica: 100 Objects that Tell the Story of a Remarkable Continent" presents a visual history of Antarctica, from Terra Incognita to the legendary expeditions of Shackleton and Scott, to the frontline of climate change. The objects, sourced from polar institutions and collections around the world, range from iconic to exotic, from mundane to indispensable, and include snow goggles, lifeboats, busts of Lenin, Polar Star aircraft, sealing clubs, and ice cores. The book demonstrates how Antarctic history is human history and how human future is intertwined with the continent.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 27 October 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This captivating and highly pertinent book delves into the rich history of Antarctica by presenting a diverse collection of 100 remarkable objects sourced from global collections. In conjunction with the 250th anniversary of James Cook's historic first crossing into the Antarctic Circle on January 17, 1773, this publication offers a visually captivating narrative of Antarctica's evolution, spanning from its enigmatic origins to the legendary expeditions of Shackleton and Scott, as well as its current role as a frontline witness to climate change.

Antarctica, a pristine and awe-inspiring realm, stands as one of the planet's most extraordinary destinations, devoid of any indigenous population or rightful owner. Its breathtaking landscapes, previously undiscovered for centuries, have served as the stage for remarkable feats of human endurance, tragic events, groundbreaking scientific discoveries, and vital environmental research. The objects that chronicle the story of this remarkable continent, meticulously sourced from polar institutions and collections worldwide, encompass a wide range of artifacts, from iconic and recognizable items to exotic and intriguing pieces.

Among these treasures are snow goggles derived from Inuit technology, utilized by Amundsen during his pioneering expedition; a lifeboat that played a crucial role in Shackleton's remarkable survival; a bust of Lenin, installed by the 3rd Soviet Antarctic Expedition; the Polar Star aircraft, which made the first trans-Antarctic flight; a sealing club crafted from the penis bone of an elephant seal; a frozen beard, symbolizing Antarctic heroism and masculinity; and ice cores, containing up to 800,000 years of climate history.

This captivating book is not only a source of endless fascination but also serves as a potent testament to the interconnectedness of human history and the future of our planet. It underscores the profound impact that Antarctica has had on human civilization and highlights the critical role that this frozen realm continues to play in shaping our collective destiny. By exploring the diverse and fascinating objects that have contributed to our understanding of Antarctica, this book offers a unique perspective on the past, present, and potential future of this extraordinary region.

Weight: 890g
Dimension: 195 x 254 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781844866212