1919 - 2008
Sir Edmund Hillary was a New Zealand mountaineer, explorer, and philanthropist, best known for being one of the first two individuals to successfully reach the summit of Mount Everest on May 29, 1953, alongside Tenzing Norgay. Beyond his climbing achievements, Hillary dedicated much of his life to humanitarian efforts in Nepal, including the establishment of schools and hospitals. He was knighted in 1953 for his contributions to exploration and service to humanity.