Henry Hudson was an English explorer known for his voyages in the early 17th century. He is best remembered for his attempts to find a northeast passage to Asia. Instead, he explored parts of what is now Canada and the United States, including the Hudson River, which was named after him. His journeys helped to map uncharted territories and opened up new areas for trade and settlement. Despite his contributions to exploration, Hudson's life ended tragically. During his final voyage in 1611, his crew mutinied and set him adrift in a small boat in Hudson Bay. He was never seen again, but his legacy lives on through the waterways and places named in his honor.