Robert Peary on 6 April 1909
Man tried to reach north poll as early as 1600 AD, as opposite to south pole which is on a land mass (Antarctica), north poll is on arctic ocean which is constantly moving hence difficult to find and claim. First credible claim was made by the US explorer Frederick Cook on 21 April 1908 with two Inuit men, Ahwelah and Etukishook, as he was unable to produce convincing proof so his claim was rejected. In modern days it is credited to US Navy engineer Robert Peary, who claimed to have reached the Pole on 6 April 1909, accompanied by Matthew Henson and four Inuit men, Ootah, Seeglo, Egingwah, and Ooqueah. However, Peary's claim remains highly disputed and controversial.
Awards to Robert Peary for his discovery
1. Peary was promoted to the rank of captain in the Navy on October 20, 1910.
2. Peary was given the Thanks of Congress by a special act of March 3, 1911.
3. Peary was promoted to the rank of Rear Admiral in the Navy Civil Engineer Corps retroactive to April 6, 1909.
