The German Arctic Expedition of 1869-1870

The German Arctic Expedition of 1869-1870, led by Captain Karl Koldewey, marked a significant advancement in Arctic research. The team faced perilous conditions, culminating in the loss of the sailing vessel "Hansa" to ice, while the steam-powered "Germania" ultimately succeeded in navigating the central Arctic regions. This expedition highlighted the technological competition between traditional sailing ships and emerging steam power, reflecting a pivotal moment in maritime exploration.