 |
Edmund HillaryNew Zealand explorer and mountaineer, first conqueror of Everest
Date of Birth: 20.07.1919
Country:  New Zealand |
Content:
- Biography of Sir Edmund Percival Hillary
- Early Life and Mountaineering
- The Everest Expedition
- Philanthropy and Later Life
- Legacy
Biography of Sir Edmund Percival Hillary
Sir Edmund Percival Hillary was a New Zealand explorer, mountaineer, and philanthropist. He was born on July 20, 1919 in Auckland, New Zealand. Hillary is best known for being the first person to successfully climb Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world.
Early Life and Mountaineering
Hillary developed a passion for mountaineering during his school years. In 1939, he completed his first major climb, reaching the summit of Mount Olivier in New Zealand. During World War II, Hillary served in the Royal New Zealand Air Force. After the war, he participated in a reconnaissance expedition in 1951 and an unsuccessful attempt to climb Cho Oyu, the sixth highest mountain in the world.
The Everest Expedition
In 1953, Hillary joined the British Mount Everest expedition led by John Hunt. The team included Tenzing Norgay, a Sherpa mountaineer. On May 29, 1953, at the age of 33, Hillary and Norgay became the first humans to successfully reach the summit of Mount Everest. Their achievement was recognized as one of the greatest accomplishments of the 20th century and brought Hillary international fame.
Philanthropy and Later Life
Following his historic climb, Hillary dedicated much of his life to supporting the Sherpa people of the Himalayas. He established the Himalayan Trust, which built numerous schools and hospitals in Nepal. Hillary continued to explore remote corners of the world, conquering other Himalayan peaks and reaching both the North and South Poles. His philanthropic efforts and adventurous spirit made him a highly influential figure.
Legacy
Sir Edmund Hillary passed away on January 11, 2008, at the age of 88, due to a heart attack. His death was mourned by the people of New Zealand, and he was remembered as a national hero. Hillary's pioneering spirit, determination, and dedication to helping others continue to inspire adventurers and philanthropists around the world.
