Dispute over who was the first to reach the North Pole, 1909

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Dispute over who was the first to reach the North Pole, 1909

Dispute over who was the first to reach the North Pole, 1909. American naval officer and explorer Robert E Peary (1856-1920) is generally credited with being the leader of the first successful expidition to the North Pole (1909), although another American, Dr Frederick Cook, claimed he had reached the Pole the previous year. Cartoon from Le Petit Journal (Paris, 1909) showing Peary and Cook disputing the claim with fisticuffs, watched, somewhat incongruously, by penguins, which do not live in the northern hemisphere

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Media ID 14836116

© Ann Ronan Picture Library / Heritage-Images

Arctic Argument Controversy Cook Dispute Exploration Explorer Fight Frederick A Naval Officer North Pole Parka Penguin Polar Punch Punch Up Robert E Peary Robert Edwin Peary Robert Peary Stars And Stripes Ann Ronan Pictures Ice Axe Naval Warfare Peary Standard

FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS

> Animals > Birds > Penguins > Related Images

> North America > United States of America > Related Images

EDITORS COMMENTS
Dispute over who was the first to reach the North Pole, 1909. This print captures a moment of intense rivalry and controversy in the history of Arctic exploration. American naval officer and explorer Robert E Peary is widely recognized as the leader of the first successful expedition to the North Pole in 1909. However, another American explorer, Dr Frederick Cook, claimed that he had reached this icy milestone a year earlier. In this satirical cartoon from Le Petit Journal (Paris, 1909), we witness an unexpected scene unfold before our eyes. Peary and Cook engage in a heated argument over their competing claims, resorting to fisticuffs to settle their dispute. Surprisingly, they are observed by penguins – creatures more at home in Antarctica than in the northern hemisphere. This image not only showcases the fierce determination and competitive spirit of these explorers but also highlights how far-reaching their achievements were perceived to be. The presence of flags representing both America and its stars and stripes further emphasizes national pride during this era. As we delve into this historical snapshot frozen in time, we are reminded of the complexities surrounding great expeditions like these – controversies that continue to spark debate even today.

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