Jane Goodall, Pioneering Conservationist, Dies at 91

Jane Goodall, the renowned chimpanzee expert and conservationist, passed away on October 3, 2023, at the age of 91. Widely respected for her groundbreaking research on animal behavior, Goodall dedicated over six decades to championing the protection of chimpanzees and advocating for environmental conservation. Her contributions have profoundly shaped the way the world perceives the connection between humans and the animal kingdom.

Born in Hampstead, London, Goodall developed a passion for animals early in life, inspired by the book “Dr. Doolittle.” At just 23 years old, she traveled to Kenya, where she met the prominent anthropologist Louis Leakey. His encouragement led her to begin studying chimpanzees in Gombe National Park, Tanzania, in 1960. There, she made significant discoveries about chimpanzee behavior, observing their use of tools, social interactions, and emotional complexity.

Legacy of Conservation and Education

Goodall’s research revealed that chimpanzees communicate in ways strikingly similar to humans, including actions like hugging and kissing. These findings challenged previous notions about the emotional and social capabilities of animals, establishing a new understanding of their individuality. In recognition of her work, she earned a PhD in ethology from Cambridge University between 1962 and 1966.

In 1977, she founded the Jane Goodall Institute (JGI), which now operates 24 locations worldwide. The JGI focuses on chimpanzee research, habitat protection, and the care of orphaned chimpanzees, particularly in the Republic of Congo and South Africa. Additionally, in 1991, Goodall initiated the Roots & Shoots program, empowering young people to engage in local conservation efforts across more than 70 countries.

Throughout her life, Goodall received numerous accolades, with her award list extending to nine pages. Notable recognitions include the Medal of Tanzania, Japan’s Kyoto Prize, and the Gandhi/King Award for Nonviolence. In 2004, she was appointed a Dame Commander of the British Empire for her contributions to science and conservation.

Advocacy and Global Influence

A passionate advocate against animal cruelty, Goodall called for an end to factory farming, citing its adverse effects on human health and biodiversity. She adopted a vegan lifestyle and actively supported initiatives aimed at banning trophy hunting imports in the UK. Her articulate advocacy reached broader audiences through over 40 films and documentaries, including Jane (2017) and Jane Goodall: The Hope (2020), which showcased her lifelong commitment to activism.

Goodall’s influence extended to literature, with more than two dozen books to her name. Her final publication, The Book of Hope: A Survival Guide for Trying Times, co-authored with Douglas Abrams, reflects her enduring optimism and belief in the human capacity to effect change. She expressed a profound belief in the continuity of consciousness beyond death, stating, “I can’t think of a greater adventure than what is beyond our mortal life.”

Even in her later years, Goodall traveled globally, sharing her insights on the challenges facing chimpanzees and the environment. In autumn 2025, she was scheduled to deliver a series of lectures in Canada and the United States, illustrating her unwavering dedication to education and environmental advocacy.

Jane Goodall’s contributions to science, conservation, and education have left an indelible mark on the world. Her legacy continues to inspire generations to understand and appreciate the intricate connections between humans and the natural world.