First Black Mountaineer to Summit Everest: Bernard Tekpetey in 1988

The first Black person to reach the summit of Mount Everest was Bernard Tekpetey of Tanzania, on 30 May 1988.

Context

• Part of an international expedition.
• Preceded other notable Black climbers (e.g., Sibusiso Vilane, 2003; Sophia Danenberg, 2006).
• Achievement recognized in mountaineering history.

Tekpetey’s summit broke a significant barrier in high-altitude climbing.