Jane Goodall: A Life of Discovery and Impact

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Jane Goodall and Her Impact

Jane Goodall wasn't always a scientist. She started as a young girl who loved animals, especially chimpanzees.

Her love for wildlife began early—so early that when she was just a toddler, she received a stuffed chimp named Jubilee, which set her on her life's path.

Growing up in England, Jane dreamed of going to Africa to study animals in the wild. At just 26 years old, her dream came true when she traveled to Tanzania in 1960 to study chimpanzees in the Gombe Stream National Park.

When Jane first arrived, the chimpanzees ran away from her, but she was patient. Eventually, they allowed her to get closer, and what she observed completely changed how scientists viewed animals.

Jane learned that chimpanzees were much more like humans than anyone had realized. They use tools, just like us!

She saw chimpanzees make and use sticks to fish for termites, and this discovery changed the way scientists thought about animals. Before Jane, it was believed that only humans used tools. But she showed that chimps could, too.

As Jane’s research continued, she made even more shocking discoveries. She saw that chimpanzees had deep social lives. They formed friendships, had conflicts, and even expressed emotions like joy, sadness, and anger.

As her research continued, Jane's discoveries didn't just shake up the world of science—they changed it. Her observations proved that animals, especially chimpanzees, were more like humans than anyone had previously realized.

But Jane didn't stop at research. She became passionate about protecting chimpanzees and the environment. In 1977, she founded the Jane Goodall Institute to help with conservation efforts and improve the lives of people living in poverty worldwide.

Jane has inspired millions to care about animals and the environment through her efforts.

In 2002, the United Nations named her a Messenger of Peace for her tireless work. Jane's story is a reminder of how curiosity, persistence, and compassion can lead to real change.

Watch the video below to review key moments of Jane's journey, including her childhood fascination with animals, her groundbreaking research in Africa, and her impact on conservation efforts worldwide.

Now that you've learned about Jane Goodall’s fascinating research and groundbreaking discoveries, it’s time to dive deeper into how her efforts have made the world a better place.

From protecting chimpanzees to advocating for environmental change, Jane's actions continue to inspire people around the globe.

Head to the Got It? section to see how well you can remember what you’ve learned and to explore how Jane’s work is changing the world!