Thor Heyerdahl
Explorer of ancient maritime routes
Born
October 6th, 1914
110 years ago
Died
April 18th, 2002
23 years ago — 87 years old
Category
Explorers & Adventurers
Country
Norway
Links & References
An ethnographer and explorer led the Kon-Tiki expedition in 1947, sailing from Peru to Polynesia on a balsa wood raft to demonstrate the feasibility of ancient maritime contact. Undertook several other expeditions, including Ra and Ra II, using papyrus boats to cross the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Authored several books detailing these explorations, contributing to discussions on human migration and the origins of cultures. Held a PhD in anthropology, which underscored the academic basis for the adventures. Received various international awards and acclaim for his daring voyages.
Led the Kon-Tiki expedition in 1947
Conducted the Ra and Ra II voyages
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