About this episode

The episode explores the ill-fated expedition of Robert O'Hara Burke and the poor decisions that led to its unraveling.

In 1860, police officer Robert O'Hara Burke plans an expedition to map the mysterious blank in the centre of Australia. Joining him is scientist William Wills, and a ragtag team of hires. Burke falls out with virtually everyone around him, and demonstrates an uncanny ability to make terrible choices - from the equipment he brings to the route he takes. But even as the mission unravels, one final, simple decision could still save him. For a full list of show notes, see timharford.com .  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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