An early history of the 8000m peaks: Mummery, Crowley and the Duke of Abruzzi

The fourteen peaks over 8000 metres have enjoyed a special status throughout the 20th century and were subject to many races to climb them. In the first of a short series of posts about their early history I introduce three memorable characters.

Albert Mummery, the Alpine Pioneer Albert Mummery, a true pioneer in the Alps, but not so hot in the Himalayas (Photo: Martin Jacolette)

The first man to attempt an 8,000er was the British climber Albert Mummery, who attempted 8125m Nanga Parbat in th...