The Northwest Passage is a sea route connecting the northern Atlantic and Pacific Oceans through the Arctic Ocean. European explorers sought this passage as a shorter trade route to Asia, but it remained largely impassable until the 20th century due to ice.
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The Northwest Passage refers to a sea route connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans through the Arctic Ocean, along the northern coast of North America via waterways amidst the Canadian Arctic Archipelago. The quest for this passage began in the 15th century, reaching its height during the Age of Discovery when European explorers, such as John Cabot and Henry Hudson, sought a direct route to Asia for trade purposes. Harsh climates and ice-blocked routes made the journey perilous.
The pursuit of the Northwest Passage had significant implications for navigation, commerce, and sovereignty. While it eluded mariners for centuries due to extreme ice conditions, advancements in technology and receding ice levels have renewed interest in its potential as a commercial shipping route. This has sparked discussions on maritime rights and environmental concerns. The historical search for the passage spurred exploration of North America, leading to further geopolitical developments and European colonial expansion in the New World.