Henry Hudson was an English explorer and navigator who lived during the 16th and 17th centuries. He is best known for his efforts to find a northwest passage to Asia and for exploring the region that is now known as the Hudson Bay in Canada. Hudson made several voyages in search of a passage to Asia, and his explorations greatly contributed to the understanding of the geography of North America. His voyages and discoveries played a significant role in the early exploration and colonization of the Americas.