Fridtjof Wedel-Jarlsberg Nansen (1861-1930) was a Norwegian polar explorer, scientist, statesman and diplomat.
This great sportsman (skiing and ice-skating) gained international renown by leading the first inland crossing of Greenland in 1888, then by setting a record for northern latitude (86°13′) during his expedition to the North Pole from 1893 to 1896.
His techniques and innovations in locomotion, equipment and clothing adapted to the polar environment influenced many subsequent explorations of the Arctic and Antarctic.
The second half of his career was devoted to scientific research (in zoology, oceanography and neurology), followed by diplomacy. Appointed High Commissioner for Refugees at the League of Nations, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1922 for his work on behalf of the displaced victims of the First World War and the ensuing conflicts.