Franklin expedition captain who died in 1848 was cannibalized by survivors

Scientists from the University of Waterloo have confirmed that Captain James Fitzjames of the HMS Erebus, part of Sir John Franklin's ill-fated 1846 Arctic expedition, was cannibalized by survivors. DNA analysis of a tooth from a mandible found at an archaeological site matched Fitzjames, providing concrete evidence of cannibalism among the crew, which aligns with Inuit accounts from the time. The expedition, which aimed to navigate the Northwest Passage, became trapped in ice, leading to the death of all 129 crew members. Fitzjames took command after Franklin's death in 1847 and led the remaining survivors in a desperate attempt to escape. The study highlights that rank did not protect individuals from the dire circumstances faced by the crew. Previous research had already indicated signs of cannibalism at the site, but this new identification of Fitzjames adds a personal dimension to the tragedy. The findings underscore the extreme desperation experienced by the crew, who resorted to cannibalism in their struggle for survival. The research involved comparing DNA from remains with samples from descendants of the expedition members, revealing the grim reality of their fate.

- DNA analysis confirmed Captain James Fitzjames was cannibalized by survivors of the Franklin expedition.

- The expedition aimed to navigate the Northwest Passage but became trapped in ice, leading to the death of all crew members.

- The study highlights that social rank did not prevent individuals from being cannibalized in desperate circumstances.

- Inuit accounts of cannibalism were previously dismissed but are now supported by scientific evidence.

- The research involved matching DNA from remains with samples from descendants of expedition members.