The first person to reach the South Pole was Roald Amundsen, a Norwegian explorer. He successfully arrived at the pole on December 14, 1911, leading a well-planned expedition that beat the British team led by Robert Falcon Scott. Amundsen's approach emphasized proper preparation and the use of sled dogs, which contrasted with Scott's reliance on ponies and other less suitable methods for the harsh Antarctic environment. His successful journey to the South Pole marked a significant milestone in polar exploration and established Amundsen as one of the greatest explorers of his time.