Lynne Cox swam Alaska to Soviet Union across icy Bering Strait in 1987
Endurance swimmer Lynne Cox completed a historic crossing of the Bering Strait in 1987, swimming from Alaska into Soviet territory through frigid 38°F waters. The feat took place during a period of heightened Cold War tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union. Cox's swim was widely seen as a symbolic gesture of peace and goodwill between the two rival nations. Her achievement drew praise from leaders on both sides, highlighting the possibility of cooperation in the Bering Strait region.









