Hey, there! You’ve been hearing about all these great French explorers, but guess what? I’m not French! I sailed for the English. I’m told I was born sometime between 1560 and People didn’t always keep the best records back in my day. Meet Henry Hudson Where and when was Hudson born? What country did he sail for? Write your answer on your “Background Information” fact card.

The Muscovy Company in England sent me out on my voyage. Us Europeans were just determined to find this fast track to Asia. I had a slightly different idea of how to get there than many other explorers.

My idea was to head way north toward to North Pole. While other explorers thought that they might find a waterway THROUGH the new world continent, I thought I might be able to find a pathway by heading northeast, OVER Europe and Asia. Think! What was Hudson’s plan for finding a quick route to Asia? Write your answer on your “Goals” fact card.

We ran into a bit of a problem. The further north we got, the colder and icier it got. Eventually, our ship couldn’t sail through the icy waters anymore. The weather was rough! This is more than we can handle, Henry!!! Turn this ship around, or else! I was forced by my crew to head back to England! What problem did Hudson run into on his first voyage? Write your answer on your “Voyages” fact card.

Off we go! After that, the Muscovy Company in England decided not to send out any more explorers. Can you believe it? I was out of job and in search for another country to loan me a ship for another voyage. This time, Holland hired me. My new ship was called the “Half Moon.”

Although I wanted to head north again, my crew was not happy with the thought of running into freezing weather again. They threatened me and forced me to head southwest. We landed on the east coast of the new world. Now you listen here, Henry. I’ve got no intention of freezing into an ice block! Think! Where did Hudson head on his voyage this time? Write your answer on your “Voyages” fact card..

We found our way into the New York Bay and eventually in another river that is now known as the Hudson River. We were able to explore up and down the Hudson River. Hey! Maybe this river will lead us to the other side of the continent! Think! What major area did Hudson and his crew explore? Write your answer on your “Voyages” fact card.

Unfortunately the river didn’t lead us to the other side of the continent, but we were able to set up trading posts to trade with the Native Americans. We even made some settlements along the way. I was anxious to keep exploring, but it was getting late in the year and the weather began to turn cold again. My crewmates again insisted we return home. This time I stood my ground and refused to leave. Do you know what they did?? They forced me into a small boat and left without me!!! Can you believe that? Although Hudson was abandoned by his crew, what is he remembered for? Write your answer on your “Results” fact card.

After Hudson was abandoned by his crew, he was never heard of again! End of Section This is the end of Henry Hudson’s journey.