Renowned Conservationist Jane Goodall Dies Aged 91 in California

Jane Goodall, the renowned primatologist and conservationist, passed away at age 91 in California while on a U.S. speaking tour. She revolutionized the study of chimpanzees beginning in 1960 at Gombe Stream National Park, famously documenting tool use among chimpanzees, which challenged previous scientific assumptions about animal behavior. Goodall founded the Jane Goodall Institute in 1977 and created the global youth program Roots & Shoots, dedicating her life to conservation, biodiversity, and climate advocacy. She received numerous prestigious honors including being named a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire, a United Nations Messenger of Peace, and receiving the U.S. Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2025. Following the announcement of her death, tributes poured in globally from world leaders, scientists, celebrities, and organizations such as the UN and Greenpeace, highlighting her profound influence beyond the scientific community. Her final scheduled speaking event in Pasadena transformed from a celebration to a tribute, reflecting the deep admiration and legacy she left behind.