Matthew Henson Joins Peary Arctic Expeditions

Matthew Henson joined Robert Peary's first Arctic expedition in 1891, beginning a partnership that included six polar expeditions. Henson learned Inuit languages, built sleds, and navigated terrain that made him indispensable. In 1909 he was among the first to reach the North Pole. He was awarded the Navy Medal in 1944 and a Congressional Gold Medal posthumously.