Fridtjof Nansen

Nansen, Fridtjof (1861–1930), Norwegian explorer, scientist, and humanitarian. He is best known for his explorations of the Arctic. His attempts at reaching the North Pole by drifting on ice across the polar basin in a crush-resistant ship yielded information on oceanography and meteorology. He was awarded the 1922 Nobel Peace Prize for his work as the League of Nations' high commissioner for refugees.