Description:
(Mountaineer)
Heinrich Harrer was an Austrian mountaineer who was part of the team that made the first ascent of the formidable north wall of the Eiger in Switzerland. He was also a prominent sportsman, geographer, and author who gained much publicity for his books ‘Seven Years in Tibet’ and ‘The White Spider,’ the former of which was also made into a Hollywood motion picture. Harrer lived an adventurous life exploring the world’s highest peaks and led path-breaking expeditions to Alaska, the Andes and the Mountains of the Moon in Uganda, among other exotic mountain ranges. Born into a simple family in Hüttenberg, Austria, he grew up with a love for exploration. As a young man he realized that mountain climbing was his true passion and achieved his first major success as a mountaineer with the first ascent of the Eiger North Face. During the World War II he was taken a prisoner-of-war by the British while exploring the region around the Nanga Parbat. Ever the daring soul, he made good his escape and ventured into Tibet where he later became a tutor and friend to the Dalai Lama. He returned to Austria after seven years and continued his mountaineering activities.
Birthday
July 6, 1912 (Cancer)
Died on
January 7, 2006
Spouse/Ex-
Katharina Haarhaus (m. 1962–2006), Lotte Wegener (m. 1938–1943), Margaretha Truxa (m. 1953–1958)
Parents
What is Heinrich Harrer known for?
Heinrich Harrer was known for his exploration of Tibet and his book "Seven Years in Tibet," documenting his experiences.
Where did Heinrich Harrer travel in Tibet?
Heinrich Harrer traveled to Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, where he lived for several years and became close with the Dalai Lama.
What inspired Heinrich Harrer to write "Seven Years in Tibet?"
Heinrich Harrer was inspired to write "Seven Years in Tibet" to share his experiences living in Tibet and to raise awareness about the region's culture and history.
How did Heinrich Harrer escape from a British internment camp during World War II?
Heinrich Harrer escaped from a British internment camp in India and made his way to Tibet, where he began his journey and exploration of the region.
What impact did Heinrich Harrer have on the Western understanding of Tibet?
Heinrich Harrer's writings and experiences in Tibet helped to shape Western perceptions and understanding of Tibetan culture, religion, and history.
