Question

Describe the journey of edmund hillary to the summit

Answer 1

Edmund Hillary, along with Tenzing Norgay, became the first person to reach the summit of Mount Everest, the world's highest peak, on May 29, 1953. Here is a brief overview of their historic journey:

1. Preparation and Planning:

   • The expedition was part of the British Mount Everest expedition of 1953, led by Colonel John Hunt.
   • Hillary, a New Zealand mountaineer, and Tenzing Norgay, a Sherpa of Nepal, were selected as part of the team to attempt the summit.

2. Base Camp and Acclimatization:

   • The expedition set up base camp on the southern side of Everest in Nepal.
   • The climbers went through a series of acclimatization climbs, gradually ascending and descending to adapt their bodies to the high altitude.

3. Establishment of Higher Camps:

   • Higher camps were established at strategic points on the route, providing resting and acclimatization points.
   • The team faced numerous challenges, including treacherous icefalls, crevasses, and harsh weather conditions.

4. Summit Attempt:

   • The final push to the summit began from the South Col on May 27, 1953.
   • Hillary and Tenzing faced challenging conditions, including a difficult rock face now known as the Hillary Step.
   • The climbers used supplemental oxygen as they ascended to counter the thin air at high altitudes.

5. Historic Summit:

   • On the morning of May 29, 1953, Hillary and Tenzing successfully reached the summit of Mount Everest, standing at an elevation of 29,029 feet (8,848 meters).
   • The achievement marked a historic moment in mountaineering history and a triumph for the British expedition.

6. Descent and Celebration:

   • After spending only about 15 minutes at the summit due to limited oxygen supplies, Hillary and Tenzing began their descent.
   • The news of their successful ascent reached the world, and the achievement was widely celebrated.

7. Legacy:

   • Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay's successful ascent of Mount Everest is considered one of the greatest achievements in the history of exploration.
   • Hillary went on to become a respected figure in mountaineering and exploration, contributing significantly to various philanthropic and humanitarian efforts.

The journey of Hillary and Tenzing to the summit of Mount Everest remains a symbol of human perseverance, teamwork, and the indomitable spirit of exploration.