author
Hiram Bingham
1875–1956
Best known for bringing Machu Picchu to worldwide attention, this American explorer, teacher, and public figure led a life that moved from scholarship to adventure to politics. His story blends real discovery, ambition, and the lasting debates that often follow famous expeditions.
2 Audiobooks
About the author
Born in Honolulu on November 19, 1875, Hiram Bingham III became an American academic, explorer, and politician. He taught history and later led the 1911 Yale Peruvian Expedition, which helped introduce Machu Picchu to an international audience and began its scientific study.
Bingham's reputation grew quickly after his work in Peru, and he wrote about those journeys for a wide readership. His best-known book, Lost City of the Incas, helped turn his expedition into one of the great adventure stories of the early 20th century.
His career later shifted into public office. He served briefly as governor of Connecticut in 1925 and then represented the state in the U.S. Senate. He died in Washington, D.C., on June 6, 1956.