Who is credited with the first formal use of the term "Detective"?

The correct answer is credited to Francois Vidocq, who is recognized as a significant figure in the history of detective work and investigative practices. Vidocq was a former criminal turned detective in France during the early 19th century, and he is often considered a pioneer in the field of criminal investigation. He founded the Sûreté Nationale, which was one of the first police organizations in the world and is credited with establishing many modern investigative techniques.

Vidocq's work emphasized the importance of investigating crimes by collecting evidence and utilizing reasoning and deduction, which laid the groundwork for modern detective work. His contributions also included formalizing the role of a detective as someone who investigates crimes rather than merely enforcing laws. This marked a shift in how law enforcement approached crime, moving towards more analytical and methodical methods of investigation.

Other individuals mentioned, such as Edgar Allan Poe and Francis Galton, contributed to the literature and principles surrounding detective work, but it was Vidocq who formally established the role and coined the term in a way that is recognized in the context of criminal investigation. John F. Kennedy's relevance in this context is unrelated, as he was primarily known as a political leader rather than as a figure in criminal investigation.