Rutkiewicz, Wanda (1943–)

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Rutkiewicz, Wanda (1943–)

Polish mountain climber. Born Feb 4, 1943, in Lithuania; acquired a Master of Science in computer science; married 1970 (div. 1973); m. Helmut Scharfetter, 1982 (div. 1984).

Made the 1st all-women's ascent of the North Face of Matterhorn (1978); was the 1st European woman and 1st Pole to climb Mount Everest (1978); made the 1st all-female ascent of Nanga Parbat, without oxygen or high altitude porters; ascended K2 (1986).

See also Women in World History.