Short History Of... The Conquest of Everest
Dec 29, 2025
In this captivating discussion, Mick Conefrey, a documentary maker and expert in Himalayan history, delves into the allure of Everest as the ultimate climbing challenge. He reveals its sacred significance to the Sherpa people and the perilous journey of early explorers. Topics include the pioneering expeditions, the mysteries surrounding Mallory and Irvine's last climb, and the logistical feats of the iconic 1953 British ascent. Conefrey also highlights the evolving dangers of Everest today amidst the surge in climbers, sparking a reflection on the true cost of conquest.
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How Everest Got Its Name
- The mountain was renamed Everest after surveyor George Everest despite local names like Sagamatta and Kamalangma.
- Radhanath Sikdar's 1852 measurement accurately identified it as the world's highest peak.
Mallory And Irvine's Vanishing
- George Mallory and Andrew Irvine set off for the summit in 1924 and disappeared into the mist.
- Mallory's body was found in 1999, reigniting debate whether they reached the summit first.
Postwar Access Changed The Game
- Nepal's reopening after WWII enabled southern approaches and new routes like the South Col.
- The South Col route shifted strategy and made successful summit attempts more feasible.