Born: 8/8/1866 Nanjemoy, Maryland

Died: 3/9/1955 New York City, New York

Matthew Henson was the first African-American Arctic explorer, an associate of Robert Peary on seven voyages over a period of nearly 23 years. They made six voyages and spent a total of 18 years in expeditions.Henson served as a navigator and craftsman, traded with Inuit and learned their language, and was known as Peary's "first man" for these arduous travels.

Awards / Achievements:

• Henson has received numerous posthumous honors since then