Ernest de Koven Leffingwell
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Ernest de Koven Leffingwell (January 13, 1875 – January 27, 1971) was an arctic explorer, geologist and Spanish–American War veteran.
Quick Facts Born, Died ...
Ernest de Koven Leffingwell | |
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Born | (1875-01-13)January 13, 1875 |
Died | January 27, 1971(1971-01-27) (aged 96) |
Nationality | American |
Alma mater | University of Chicago; Trinity College, Hartford |
Known for | mapping and geology of Alaska North Slope |
Awards | Charles P. Daly Medal (1922) |
Scientific career | |
Fields | Geology |
Institutions | Independent; US Geological Survey |
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During the period from 1906 to 1914, Leffingwell spent nine summers and six winters on the Arctic coast of Alaska, making 31 trips by dog sled or small boats.[1] He created the first accurate map of a large part of the Alaskan arctic coastline. He was the first to scientifically describe permafrost and to pose theories about permafrost which have largely proven true. He accurately identified the oil potential of the North Slope region of Alaska.[1]