Joseph LeConte

Born in Georgia in 1823, Joseph LeConte trained as a physician before turning more fully toward natural science. He became known as a geologist, educator, and popular science writer whose interests ranged from evolution to the physical history of the Earth.

After teaching in the South, he joined the University of California, Berkeley, where he became one of the institution’s early and important professors. He was especially associated with geology and natural history, and he helped build the university’s reputation during its formative years.

LeConte also reached a broad audience through books and essays, including well-known works on religion and science, evolution, and geology. He died in 1901, leaving behind a legacy as both a working scientist and a gifted explainer of science.