Who is credited with the authorship of the seminal work on fingerprints?

The correct answer is attributed to Sir Francis Galton, who is recognized for his foundational contributions to the study of fingerprints. In his landmark publication, "Fingerprints," released in 1892, Galton established the uniqueness and permanence of fingerprint patterns, laying the groundwork for their use in forensic science and personal identification. His systematic approach to analyzing fingerprints solidified their significance in criminal investigation, leading to their widespread acceptance as reliable means of identifying individuals.

Galton's work was revolutionary at a time when forensic science was still in its infancy, and his findings influenced subsequent researchers and practitioners in the field. His rigorous methodology and statistical analysis demonstrated the potential of fingerprints to provide accurate forensic evidence, which has become a cornerstone in forensic investigations today.

This recognition of Galton's contributions highlights the evolution of criminal investigation practices and the ongoing importance of scientific methods in this domain.