Admiral Robert E. Peary searches the horizon for land during his third attempt to reach the North Pole in 1909. The successful trip made Peary the first person to reach the region.
Admiral Robert E. Peary searches the horizon for land during his third attempt to reach the North Pole in 1909. The successful trip made Peary the first person to reach the region.
Photograph by Robert E. Peary, Nat Geo Image Collection

9 Photographs That Have Made History

From the first wildlife photo to the deepest dive, we take a look at photographs that have pushed the boundaries of storytelling.

In celebration of our 130th anniversary, we share a selection of photographs that have opened our minds to the world around us, challenged our perceptions of what is possible, and set the stage for future exploration. Without risk, there is no reward. And without pushing the limits of what’s possible, there are no discoveries.

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