(Semi)Formal Absolution of Ada Blackjack
As the rest of the posts have mentioned, instead of being hailed as a heroine for her survival upon her return, Ada found herself embroiled in controversy, accused by some of the public and media of cannibalism and failing to properly care for Lorne Knight in his final days. These accusations were not only baseless but also ignored the substantial evidence in the form of documents and diaries maintained by both Knight and Blackjack, which painted a very different picture of the events on Wrangel Island.
Ada's diary entries and Knight's own writings, recovered after their rescue, provided a clear account of Ada's relentless efforts to nurse Knight back to health. Despite her limited medical knowledge and the absence of proper medical supplies, Ada went to great lengths to care for him. She hunted for food in extreme conditions, risking her life to ensure they had enough to eat, melted snow for water, and attempted to nurse Knight with the rudimentary medical knowledge she possessed. Much of this was documented in Ada’s diary listed earlier in the
However, a single diary leaves a bit of subjective interpretation. Perhaps Ada Blackjack left out key details or wanted to paint a picture that did make her seem like the heroine. This is where having multiple perspectives comes into play. Knight's diary entries corroborate Ada's efforts, noting her care and the comfort she tried to provide him despite their dire circumstances. He documents the symptoms of scurvy he experiences (for the second time, actually) and how they attempt to treat them. These entries starkly contrast the accusations leveled against Ada, showing a woman who battled the unforgiving Arctic environment and the limits of her own survival skills to keep both of them alive. Knight's passing was a blow to Ada, who had fought tirelessly to save him, and she preserved his body as best she could under the circumstances, respecting her companion until the end.
The allegations of cannibalism seemed to stem from a gross misunderstanding and sensationalism. The diaries, along with Ada's accounts, detailed the pair’s diet of seal, polar bear, and birds, never once suggesting anything remotely close to cannibalism. She actually talks of hunting for the both of them, killing a seal and when Knight isn’t able to swallow it, looking for eggs to cook for him. Such accusations appeared to be fueled by prejudices and a lack of understanding of survival in the Arctic conditions, rather than any factual evidence.
Ada’s narrative, as supported by Knight’s testament, is one of compassion and endurance. She is truly the heroine of this expedition, not only surviving alone but also supporting Knight to the best of her capabilities in an unforgiving environment. Only now in retrospect, with all of the diaries and perspectives accounted for, can we recognize Ada Blackjack for her remarkable account of survival, resilience, and unwavering dedication in the face of ultimate hardship.