Ernest Shackleton was an experienced explorer who led several expeditions to Antarctica, including one aboard the ship Endurance. In 1914, the Endurance became trapped and crushed by ice before the expedition could reach land. Shackleton demonstrated tremendous leadership in ensuring the survival of all his crew as they endured harsh conditions, eventually escaping to safety across open ocean in lifeboats and on foot. Though the original goal was not achieved, Shackleton succeeded in his most important mission of bringing all his men home alive.