Humans didn’t discover Antarctica until 1820.
Once discovered, several nations sought to claim the continent as their own. As tension increased, some countries began working on a peaceful solution.
On December 1st, 1959 in Washington, D.C. delegates from 12 Countries (Argentina, Australia, Belgium, France, Chile, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, South Africa, , Soviet Union, United Kingdom and United States), came together to sign the Antarctic Treaty which is considered to be one of the most successful achievements of the international community.
Antarctica Day , along with Midwinter Day, it is one of Antarctica’s two principal holidays.
Since then, on December 1st, Antarctica Day recognizes the anniversary of the Antarctic Treaty which established that Antarctica is and will remain a nature reserve dedicated to peace and science.
It’s also a day to learn more about this cold and barren Continent, surf the pages of WAP website and enjoy Antarctica as much as we do.