MAGELLAN, STRAIT OF

MAGELLAN, STRAIT OF, separates South America on the south from Tierra del Fuego. It is 375 miles in length, and its breadth varies for the most part between 12 and 17 miles. It was discovered by Magellan in 1520, and first thoroughly explored by King and Fitzroy in the Adventure and Beagle (1826-36). The wider eastern half is bordered by level, gently-rolling grassy plains. The narrower western half is shut in by steep, wooded mountains; the current runs strong through it, and the west winds are a great hindrance to sailing-vessels. There are several fine harbours along this part of the strait. See works by R. O. Cunningham (Edin. 1878) and A. W. Miller (Portsmouth, 1884).