Scott and Shackleton

Captain Scott’s main goal in the Terra Nova Expedition

To be the first to reach the South Pole and return safely.

Scott’s transport choices contribution to failure

He used ponies, man-hauling, and unreliable motor sledges instead of sled dogs, which were better suited to Antarctic conditions.

Lack of experience affecting Scott's team chances

Few were trained in polar survival, skiing, or using sled dogs, making travel and survival much harder.

Planning mistakes made by Scott

Poorly placed supply depots, underestimating calorie needs, and leaking fuel canisters.

Result of Scott’s expedition

Reached the South Pole second (after Amundsen) but all five men in the polar party died on the return journey.

How Scott is remembered today

As a symbol of tragic bravery and heroic failure.

Shackleton’s original goal in the Endurance Expedition

To cross the Antarctic continent from coast to coast.

Shackleton’s exceptional leadership traits

Prioritized the survival of his crew over completing the mission, kept morale high, and made flexible, decisive choices.

Shackleton’s experience impact on success

He had prior Antarctic experience, knew how to read ice and weather, and adapted strategies as conditions changed.

Shackleton's daring rescue mission

An 800-mile journey in a small lifeboat (James Caird) across the Southern Ocean to South Georgia Island.

How Shackleton secured rescue for his crew

After reaching South Georgia, he crossed the island’s unmapped mountains to reach a whaling station and organized a rescue.

Outcome of Shackleton’s expedition

Although the expedition failed to cross Antarctica, Shackleton saved all 28 men, making it one of history’s greatest survival stories.

How Shackleton is remembered today

As a model of outstanding crisis leadership, resilience, and survival.

Biggest leadership difference between Scott and Shackleton

Scott was rigid and goal-focused; Shackleton was flexible and people-focused.

Scott’s planning contribution to failure

He underestimated food and fuel needs, mismanaged depot placements, and took an extra man to the Pole, overstraining supplies.

Importance of Shackleton’s adaptability

He constantly adjusted plans — switching from sledging to boats, splitting groups, and launching a risky rescue mission when needed.

Transport mistake Scott made with animals

He used ponies, which were poorly suited to Antarctic ice and snow, instead of reliable sled dogs.

Shackleton’s greatest navigation achievement

Sailing 800 miles in a small lifeboat across the Southern Ocean and landing almost exactly where planned.

Factors keeping Shackleton’s crew morale high

Humor, shared hardship, routine, Shackleton’s personal involvement, and strong group loyalty.

Contributions to Scott’s team’s physical collapse

Severe exhaustion, extreme cold, inadequate rations, and inability to reach supply depots.

Famous phrase linked to Shackleton’s leadership

“Leadership in crisis” — referring to his ability to keep his men alive through extreme adversity.

Differences in outcomes of two expeditions

Scott’s expedition reached its goal but lost all its polar team; Shackleton’s failed its goal but saved every crew member.

Lesson modern leaders take from Shackleton’s story

The importance of adaptability, team care, and prioritizing people over fixed goals in crisis.