Dr. Jane Goodall, the pioneering primatologist, conservationist, and humanitarian whose work reshaped our understanding of the natural world, died peacefully in her sleep at the age of 91 while on a speaking tour in Los Angeles, the Jane Goodall Institute confirmed Wednesday morning.
Her passing marks the end of an era, but her life’s work continues to ripple across the globe … from the forests of Tanzania to classrooms and conservation projects worldwide.
A Groundbreaking Journey in Science
In 1960, a 26-year-old Jane Goodall stepped into Gombe Stream National Park in Tanzania with little more than a notebook, a pair of binoculars, and boundless curiosity. What followed would revolutionize primatology.
Goodall’s patient observations revealed that chimpanzees were far more like us than anyone had dared to suggest at the time, capable of making and using tools, showing complex emotions, and building rich social bonds. Her findings forever blurred the once-clear line between humans and animals.
Her work, still the longest-running wild chimpanzee study in history, changed the way we think about our closest relatives and, ultimately, ourselves.
Beyond the Forest: A Voice for the Planet
While Dr. Goodall’s name became synonymous with chimpanzee research, her mission grew far beyond the forests of Gombe. Through the Jane Goodall Institute, she championed conservation rooted in local communities, ensuring that protecting wildlife also meant supporting the people who lived alongside them.
Dr. Goodall also founded Roots & Shoots, a youth-led global program now active in 75 countries, designed to empower young people to tackle environmental and humanitarian challenges.
Governor Gavin Newsom reflected on her impact, saying:
“Jane Goodall was a global legend at the forefront of discovery—breaking through barriers for women in primatology, science, and beyond. Her curiosity, strength, and kindness changed the world, bridging countries and cultures in pursuit of a better future.”
An Inspiration Across Generations
Goodall’s influence reached far beyond academia and conservation. Her quiet but determined advocacy made her one of the world’s most recognized and beloved figures in science and environmentalism. She carried with her a trademark blend of gentleness and urgency, reminding humanity of its responsibility to care for the natural world.
Former President Barack Obama paid tribute to her life and legacy:
“Jane Goodall had a remarkable ability to inspire us to connect with the natural wonders of our world, and her groundbreaking work on primates and the importance of conservation opened doors for generations of women in science. Michelle and I are thinking of all those who loved and admired her.”
A Lasting Legacy
From her earliest days sitting quietly among chimpanzees to her final tours urging action against climate change and biodiversity loss, Goodall never stopped working. She remained hopeful even in the face of daunting challenges, often crediting the younger generations of activists and scientists for inspiring her optimism.
Her message was clear: the future of the planet depends not on despair, but on action fueled by hope.
The Jane Goodall Institute has invited people around the world to share personal remembrances and tributes at JaneGoodall.org/RememberingJane.
Dr. Jane Goodall leaves behind a living legacy … not only in the chimpanzees still thriving under the protections she helped inspire, but in the countless people who will continue her work to protect and heal the world we share.
