1953 British Mount Everest expedition facts for kids
The British Mount Everest expedition of 1953 was a famous trip. It was the first time anyone successfully reached the very top of Mount Everest, the world's highest mountain. Two brave climbers, Edmund Hillary from New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay from Nepal, were the ones who made history. This was the ninth try to reach the summit.
The Journey to the Summit
The expedition was led by Colonel John Hunt. He was chosen by the Everest organizing committee. This trip was very big, with lots of people and equipment. About 350 porters (people who carry things) helped carry tons of gear. This equipment was for only ten climbers.
Many teams had tried to reach the top before. But on May 29, 1953, Hillary and Tenzing finally made it. They could only stay on the summit for about 15 minutes. They had to be careful not to run out of oxygen.
The Return and Celebration
After their short time at the top, they began the long climb back down. They returned to their base camp feeling very tired. They were so exhausted they could barely speak.
When Colonel Hunt first saw them, he thought they had failed. He started to plan for another team to try. But Hillary and Tenzing gestured that they had succeeded! They had reached the top.
News of their success spread quickly. Hillary and Norgay instantly became heroes around the world. Their climb showed what amazing things people can do.
Images for kids
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Mount Everest. The route the British took started up the Khumbu Icefall − seen spilling out of the Western Cwm (hidden from view) − Lhotse Face and reached the South Col (snowy depression, extreme right), finishing up the south-east ridge (right-hand skyline)
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The Western Cwm, above the Khumbu Icefall. The Lhotse Face (centre right) was climbed trending left to the South Col (depression, centre), with the south-east ridge leading to Mount Everest's summit
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Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay in 1953
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Mount Everest and surrounding terrain
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Everest reunion of 1963. Team members with family and notable guests at Pen-y-Gwryd hotel
See also
In Spanish: Expedición británica al Everest de 1953 para niños
