author
Herbert Basedow
1881–1933
An energetic Australian explorer and scientist, he moved between anthropology, geology, medicine, and public life with unusual range. His writings and fieldwork captured central Australia at a time of rapid change, leaving a record that still draws historical interest.
1 Audiobook
The Australian aboriginal
by Herbert Basedow
About the author
Born in Kent Town, Adelaide, on 27 October 1881, Herbert Basedow became known as an anthropologist, geologist, explorer, medical practitioner, and later a politician. He was educated in Adelaide and Germany, studied science, and built a career that crossed several fields rather than staying in just one.
Basedow is especially remembered for his expeditions in central Australia and for his close interest in Aboriginal cultures, languages, and material life. He published books and reports drawn from travel and field observation, and he also worked as a collector and researcher connected with Australian natural history.
Later in life he entered South Australian politics while continuing his medical work. He died in Kent Town on 4 June 1933, but his reputation has endured through his exploration, scientific writing, and the large visual and documentary record he left behind.