1. Exploration of the Hudson River: His most famous achievement was the exploration of the river that now bears his name. In 1609, sailing for the Dutch East India Company, Hudson traveled up the river, reaching as far as present-day Albany, New York. This voyage opened up a new trade route for the Dutch and ultimately played a significant role in establishing New Netherland.
2. Search for the Northwest Passage: Hudson's voyages were driven by a desire to find a "Northwest Passage," a sea route through North America to Asia. While he didn't find the passage, his explorations helped map the coastlines of North America and contributed to geographical knowledge of the time.
3. Mutiny and Loss: After his voyage up the Hudson River, Hudson's crew mutinied against him and left him adrift in the Arctic Ocean with his son and a few loyal men. The fate of Hudson and his remaining crew remains a mystery.
4. Legacy and Lasting Impact: Henry Hudson's explorations left a lasting impact on the history of North America. The Hudson River became a vital waterway for trade and settlement, and his voyages helped establish Dutch claims to the region. His name continues to be associated with the river, the Hudson Bay, and various geographical features.