What Really Happened to Amelia Earhart?

The mysterious disappearance of the female flying phenomenon has perplexed aviation lovers and the public for decades.

Amelia Earhart (1897-1937), American aviator, wearing a shirt and tie while reclining in an armchair circa 1935. FPG/Getty Images

Amelia Earhart began her famous flight around the world on May 20, 1937. Departing from Oakland, California, in her Lockheed Electra, she traveled east across the United States. Her flight path took her south to South America, across the Atlantic Ocean to Africa, over Asia, and to Australia.

On July 2, 1937, she left Lae, New Guinea. There were only three more stops to make. She would land at Howland Island to refuel before proceeding to Honolulu, Hawaii, and then back to Oakland.