July 15

Born in Neuilly-sur-Seine in 1867, Jean-Baptiste Charcot trained as a medical doctor before pursuing polar exploration. He led the French Antarctic Expedition of 1903–1905 aboard the ship Français, charting parts of the Antarctic Peninsula. On his second voyage (1908–1910) aboard Pourquoi-Pas?, he discovered new islands and conducted scientific observations. Charcot combined his medical expertise with rigorous scientific research during harsh polar conditions. He published detailed reports and helped establish France’s reputation in polar science. Charcot died in 1936 when his ship was lost in Arctic waters, leaving a lasting legacy in exploration.

Edward Shackleton, Baron Shackleton, was born in 1911 and studied at University College, Oxford. He served as a Royal Air Force officer during World War II before entering politics. As Secretary of State for Air from 1955 to 1956, he oversaw the postwar development of British aviation. He also conducted important geographical surveys in the Arctic and Antarctic. Shackleton was an accomplished explorer like his father, Sir Ernest Shackleton. He later served as a Member of Parliament and in the House of Lords. He died in 1994, leaving a legacy in both exploration and public service.