The Decisive Ejection and the Change of Plan

Abstract

This chapter provides a documentation of the deadly and unpleasant aftermath of the false start to the South Pole – including the loss of some of the sled dogs and the loss of unity among the men. It also provides an analysis of Roald Amundsen’s drastic change of plan for the South Pole trek and his new strategy for the utilization of the sled dogs. Also described is the newly assigned expedition to King Edward VII Land, including the team of men and dogs chosen for that excursion. Spring’s arrival and an unexpected arrival are documented, as are Amundsen’s reactions – good and bad – to the dogs. An account of the Fram’s return from the oceanographic cruise, and its reprovisioning in Buenos Aires, is also given, including Captain Thorvald Nilsen’s receipt of support from Don Pedro Christophersen – support which determines the future fate of the expedition and of some of the sled dogs. The Fram’s departure from Buenos Aires toward Antarctica to retrieve the wintering party, coinciding with the winter party’s preparations to depart for the South Pole, is described, with a special focus on the men and dogs selected to re-embark on the South Pole trek.