Germans in the Antarctic

German Antarctic expeditions from 1901-03,1911-12, and 1938/39 were primarily scientific, but also had political and economic components. Cornelia Lüdecke's book explores these expeditions, everyday life under extreme conditions, and the myths associated with the Schwabenland expedition during the National Socialist era. It also describes German south polar research after World War II and looks at future research.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 284 pages
Publication date: 09 February 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

While science often took center stage in German Antarctic expeditions, research into the Southern Polar region invariably carried a political or economic dimension, be it related to resource utilization or securing strategic territories. Cornelia Lüdecke delves into the trajectory of three German Antarctic expeditions spanning from 1901 to 1903, 1911 to 1912, and 1938 to 1939, highlighting their dramatic twists and turns and shedding light on the daily existence under extreme conditions. Additionally, she examines unpublished material from the archives and private estates of expedition members, offering a comprehensive perspective on these expeditions from both a scientific and political standpoint. Lüdecke also addresses the myths associated with the Schwabenland expedition during the National Socialist era.

In conclusion, the author provides an overview of German south polar research following World War II, which pursued distinct paths in the German Democratic Republic and the Federal Republic of Germany. She offers a glimpse into future research endeavors in this captivating field.

This book, for the first time, presents the history of the Germans in Antarctica in a factual and accessible manner for a broader audience. It is adorned with numerous previously unpublished photographs, enhancing the reader's experience.

Weight: 542g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030409265
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021