Legendary Primatologist Jane Goodall Dies at 91
Renowned primatologist and conservationist Jane Goodall has passed away at the age of 91. The Jane Goodall Institute, which she founded in 1977, confirmed her death on Wednesday, October 1, 2025.
Goodall's groundbreaking research on chimpanzees began in 1960 when she was just 26 years old. She spent decades studying wild chimpanzees in Tanzania's Gombe National Park, discovering that they use tools, have unique personalities, and communicate in complex ways. These findings challenged traditional scientific views and highlighted the similarities between chimpanzees and humans.
Her work also inspired generations of women to pursue careers in STEM fields. Between 1970 and 2011, the percentage of women in these fields increased from 7% to 26%. Goodall's influence extended beyond science, with Mattel releasing a Barbie doll in her honor in 2022 to celebrate her 62nd anniversary of visiting Gombe National Park.
The Jane Goodall Institute, now active in 25 countries, continues her legacy of conservation and community engagement. Goodall's passion for animals, sparked by childhood books like 'Doctor Dolittle' and 'Tarzan', leaves a lasting impact on the world. Her revolutionary discoveries in ethology and unwavering commitment to environmental causes will be remembered for generations to come.
