1819day.year
British explorer William Smith discovers the South Shetland Islands.
In 1819, British explorer William Smith discovered the South Shetland Islands near Antarctica.
On February 19, 1819, Captain William Smith sighted and landed on the South Shetland Islands off the Antarctic Peninsula.
His discovery opened new opportunities for seal hunting and Antarctic exploration.
Smith's reports spurred further voyages by explorers such as Edward Bransfield and Nathaniel Palmer.
The islands became a focal point for early 19th-century sealing operations, impacting local wildlife.
Although harsh weather limited settlement, the discovery expanded geographic knowledge of the southern oceans.
Today, the South Shetlands host several scientific research stations, honoring Smith's pioneering voyage.
1819
British
William Smith
South Shetland Islands