When Alfred Nobel, the inventor of dynamite, passed away, he willed his entire fortune to create the Nobel Prize to award outstanding scientific achievements and improve the human condition. The most famous of these is the Nobel Peace Prize, given to the person or people who “have done the most or the best work for fraternity between nations, for the abolition or reduction of standing armies and the holding and promotion of peace congresses,” as he put it. On December 10, 1901, the first prize was awarded.

There was some stiff competition for the first Peace Prize. It was so stiff that the judges couldn’t decide between two candidates, so they gave it to both. Jean Henry Dunant, a Swiss businessman, was honored because of his profound impact on injured soldiers worldwide. His work was inspired by the aftermath of the Battle of Solferino, where he was horrified at the plight of the wounded soldiers. So he used his money and connections to found the International Committee of the Red Cross. This neutral organization worked to aid wounded soldiers on any battlefield, no matter which side they were on.

Frederic Passy was a prominent peace activist involved in many pacifistic causes in France and beyond. One of his most famous was helping to found the Inter-Parliamentary Union. This influential international organization promotes communication and cooperation between the officials of governments in different countries, demonstrating the power of international cooperation in the cause of peace.

The Nobel Peace Prize, since its inception, has been a beacon of hope and inspiration. Its recipients, through their tireless efforts, have significantly contributed to the advancement of peace and the betterment of humanity. This legacy of the Nobel Peace Prize has made it one of the most esteemed and revered awards in the world today.