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Willem Barentsz

Type Figure Region Netherlands Time c. 1550–1597 Also known as Willem Barentsz

Dutch navigator and cartographer, leader of three Arctic expeditions in the late 16th century seeking a Northeast Passage to Asia;…

Timeline

  1. 1570–1593Coast of the Dutch Republic · NetherlandsHe gained seafaring experience along the Dutch coast and Mediterranean routes, taking part in cartography and trading voyages, laying the technical and chart foundation for later Arctic expeditions.
  2. 1594–1597Barents Sea and Novaya Zemlya · Barents SeaFrom 1594 to 1596 he led three expeditions seeking the Northeast Passage, penetrating the Barents Sea and approaching Novaya Zemlya; in the winter of 1596–1597 he was trapped on the island, built a shelter to overwinter, and died of illness the following year while returning south by small boat.

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