Finger Prints

Despite the increasing use of DNA evidence and other sophisticated forensic techniques in crime solving fingerprints still serve as an indispensable tool of modern-day criminal investigation. This fascinating book originally published in 1892 represents the first thorough investigation of this anatomical peculiarity and its application in establishing individual identity for use in law enforcement.Sir Francis Galton a cousin of Charles Darwin and a member of the Royal Geographical Society had already made a reputation for himself as an explorer of Africa and the founder of the new field of eugenics when he turned his attention to the subject of fingerprints. Through extensive research at his anthropometric laboratory Galton laid out an elementary system of classifying fingerprints based on observed patterns of arches loops and whorls. Using meticulous drawings as well as photographs of ink prints he showed that the numerous bifurcations origins islands and enclosures in the ridges that compose the pattern are proved to be almost beyond change. Thus he established a sure method of individual identification.Galton's system was later modified by Sir Edward R. Henry who became chief of police in London. In 1901 Scotland Yard officially adopted the Galton-Henry system of fingerprinting. Today it is the most widely used system of fingerprint classification in the world.This classic work will make a welcome addition to the libraries of historians criminologists and fans of true crime and forensic science.