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Peaks, perils, and pioneers: the deadly history of mountaineering

Peaks, perils, and pioneers: the deadly history of mountaineering

Author and climber Daniel Light explores the inspirational – and risky – history of mountaineering, from its roots in religious rituals and scientific endeavours to its rise as a daring and dangerous sport

Published: May 14, 2025 at 7:00 AM

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What has prompted humans throughout history to risk life and limb to conquer some of the world's highest mountains? Author and climber Daniel Light talks to Rachel Dinning about why humans have always been drawn to mountains, the evolution of mountaineering as a sport, and the stories of the individuals who risked everything to make it to the top of nature’s most formidable peaks.

Daniel Light is the author of The White Ladder: Triumph and Tragedy at the Dawn of Mountaineering (Oneworld, 2024).

Buy it now from Waterstones