(1856-1920) US polar explorer who, after several unsuccessful attempts, became the first person to reach the North Pole on 6 April 1909. In 1988 an astronomer claimed Peary's measurements were incorrect.
One of his companions on an 1891 voyage was Frederick A Cook who, in 1909, claimed he had reached the North Pole before Peary. Although Cook's claim is generally discredited, it continues to cast a shadow over Peary's achievement.
He sailed to Cape Sheridan in the Roosevelt with his aide Matthew Henson, and they then made a sled journey to the Pole.