Amelia Lost: The Life and Disappearance of Amelia Earhart

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of death, addiction, and substance use.

Amelia Earhart’s life is often shrouded in myth, making it difficult to separate fact from fiction. Many widely accepted stories about her do not hold up under historical scrutiny. Earhart, like many celebrities, carefully curated her public image, often embellishing details to maintain her status and ensure continued opportunities in aviation. She and her husband actively shaped her persona, presenting her as naturally modest and effortlessly stylish, even though she deliberately cultivated these traits. Over time, layers of myth have obscured the complexity of who she truly was.

The narrative explores Earhart’s final flight. On the morning of July 2, 1937, Earhart approached Howland Island. The crew aboard the Coast Guard cutter Itasca prepared to assist her in locating it. The Itasca’s radio operators, including Chief Radioman Leo Bellarts, had tested equipment to ensure clear communication with Earhart, who was expected to transmit on 3105 kilocycles. However, early messages from her were weak and frequently lost in static. There was no indication that she was receiving transmissions from the Itasca.

Despite continuous efforts to establish contact, Earhart’s responses remained inconsistent.