The windiest, coldest, and driest continent on Earth—Antarctica—was officially discovered in 1820. In the following decades, several countries organized expeditions to reach and explore the Antarctic ice sheets. The southernmost continent had no indigenous population and various nations claimed ownership. But in 1959, 12 countries signed the Antarctic Treaty, banning military activities and setting Antarctica aside for scientific research. Today, we celebrate the anniversary of this treaty, which now has 56 parties.
Antarctica Day
Today in History
More Desktop Wallpapers:
-
In search of roadside attractions on ‘America’s Highway’
-
Point Reyes National Seashore, California
-
Chestnut-eared aracari in the Pantanal, Brazil
-
A view from the top
-
International Womens Day
-
Everglades National Park marks 90 years
-
Vernazza, Cinque Terre, Liguria, Italy
-
Pumpkin patch
-
Flock online for the Great Backyard Bird Count
-
Goodbye, 2020!
-
An endless journey
-
Harvest season begins
-
A circular celebration
-
Groundhog Day
-
The Rainbow Houses of Houten, Netherlands
-
Happy Independence Day!
-
Collared aracari in Costa Rica
-
Alaska Day
-
Into the woods
-
Star Wars Day
-
Surfer s paradise
-
National Blueberry Day
-
Bear cubs roughhouse on Siblings Day
-
Belize Barrier Reef
-
World Lizard Day
-
A timeless view of the night sky
-
Zelenci Nature Reserve, Slovenia
-
A courtyard scene from Spain
-
Kendwa village, Zanzibar, Tanzania
-
Kluane National Park