Books Should Be Free
Loyal Books
Free Public Domain Audiobooks & eBook Downloads
Search by: Title, Author or Keyword

The Origin of Finger-Printing   By: (1833-1917)

Book cover

In "The Origin of Finger-Printing" by William J. Herschel, readers are taken on an intriguing journey through the author's pioneering work in the field of fingerprint identification. Herschel's book is a seminal contribution to the study of fingerprinting, providing a captivating account of the historical context, development, and significance of this unique forensic technique.

The book starts with an insightful exploration of the origins of fingerprinting, shedding light on the cultural practices in ancient civilizations that inadvertently laid the groundwork for the science we know today. Herschel then delves into his own experiments, which began in the late 19th century when he first noticed the distinctiveness and durability of fingerprints while working as a British civil servant in India.

One of the most fascinating aspects of this book is Herschel's meticulous documentation of his experiments. He meticulously explains his methodology and presents strong empirical evidence to support his theories. Furthermore, he correlates his findings with real-life cases, demonstrating the practical applications of fingerprinting in criminal investigations.

Herschel's writing is concise and informative, allowing even lay readers to comprehend the intricacies of fingerprinting. He takes great care in explaining the unique patterns and features of fingerprints, ensuring that readers have a thorough understanding of the subject matter. Additionally, the inclusion of hand-drawn illustrations greatly aids in visualizing the concepts discussed and enhances the reader's comprehension.

Despite the book's age, the content remains highly relevant and enlightening. Herschel's work laid the foundation for the use of fingerprints as a means of identification, which is still widely implemented in forensic science today. His passion for his subject matter is evident in his writing, and it is impossible not to be captivated by his enthusiasm and dedication.

"The Origin of Finger-Printing" is a remarkable testament to Herschel's pioneering spirit and scientific acumen. Herschel's meticulous approach, coupled with his groundbreaking discoveries, ensure that this book remains an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the history and significance of fingerprinting. Whether one is a forensic scientist, historian, or simply a curious reader seeking knowledge, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.

First Page:

THE ORIGIN OF FINGER PRINTING

BY

SIR WILLIAM J. HERSCHEL, BART.

HUMPHREY MILFORD OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS LONDON EDINBURGH GLASGOW NEW YORK TORONTO MELBOURNE BOMBAY 1916

PRINTED IN ENGLAND AT THE OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS

DEDICATION

TO SIR EDWARD HENRY, G.C.V.O., K.C.B., C.S.I.

Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police.

I am offering you this old story of the beginnings of Finger printing, by way of expressing my warm and continuous admiration of those masterly developments of its original applications, whereby, first in Bengal and the Transvaal, and then in England, you have fashioned a weapon of penetrating certainty for the sterner needs of Justice.

W. J. HERSCHEL. June, 1916.

PREFACE

The following pages have two objects: first, to place on record the genesis of the Finger print method of personal identification, from its discovery in Bengal in 1858, till its public demonstration there in 1877 8; secondly, to examine the scanty suggestions of evidence that this use of our fingers had been foreshadowed in Europe more than a hundred years ago, and had indeed been general in ancient times, especially in China... Continue reading book >>




eBook Downloads
ePUB eBook
• iBooks for iPhone and iPad
• Nook
• Sony Reader
Kindle eBook
• Mobi file format for Kindle
Read eBook
• Load eBook in browser
Text File eBook
• Computers
• Windows
• Mac

Review this book



Popular Genres
More Genres
Languages
Paid Books