Primatologist and Scientist
Jane Goodall (1913 – present) was an English primatologist and scientist.
FAST FACTS:
- Best known as the “mother of chimpanzees,” she was one of the first scientists and ecologists to learn about chimpanzees in detail.
- Jane Goodall had very unique research techniques in comparison to normal research practices. Rather than a pure observer, her goal was to be a neighbor. She lived alongside many chimpanzees and analyzed how they behaved during all parts of the day.
- Her discoveries challenged many different theories that were present at the time, learning that chimpanzees are much more than simple creatures – they are omnivorous and complex animals with gifted abilities like tool making.
- Goodall’s fascination with chimpanzees came when her mother gave her a toy chimpanzee as a present when Goodall was two years old.
- Despite her numerous scientific and ecological achievements, she had little academic training. However, many of those who know her claim that she is one of the most passionate and hardworking women that they have ever met.
- Right after she graduated secondary school, she worked as a secretary, waitress, and film assistant in an attempt to save enough money for her first trip to Africa.
- After she finished her field work in 1986, she started two organizations: ‘The Jane Goodall Institute’ and ‘Roots & Shoots’(targeting the younger population).
To learn more about Jane Goodall, check out the links below: