Three generations of Leakeys have dug in East Africa for fossil evidence that answers questions about human origins. Louis and Mary, husband and wife, began what would turn into decades of research and fieldwork, often disproving common theories and beliefs of the time. Son Richard followed in his parents' foot steps, along with his wife Meave, and made spectacular finds as well. Today, Louise, the oldest daughter of Richard and Meave, continues the family tradition with fieldwork in northern Kenya.The Leakey family's achievements have had an enormous impact on our knowledge of human origins and evolution. This biography describes their life in detail, including their discoveries, publications, controversies, and legacy. A timeline, glossary, and bibliography of print and electronic sources supplement the material.
Mary Bowman-Kruhm is author of over 30 books for children and young adults and a member of the faculty, Johns Hopkins University, School of Professional Studies in Business and Education.
Series ForewordDedication and AcknowledgmentsIntroductionSignificant Events in the Lives of the LeakeysA Fact-finding Mission (Forward to the Past)In the Beginning (Louis, 1925-1933)Positive Choices, Negative Voices (Mary, 1913-1936; Louis, 1933-1936)War and Children: Real Time (1937-1946)Peace and Turmoil, Personal and Political (1947-1958)Human History Carved in Bone (1959-1971)Skull Drudgery and Skullduggery (1972-1977)Contentious, Contention, and a Critical Condition (1978-1988)Burning His Tusks behind Him (1989-2003)But Wait, There's More (2004 and Beyond)GlossaryBibliography
Well-researched chapters help students answer typical inquiry-based research questions. The Leakeys thoroughly recounts the history of the family….Accurate, accessible biography that goes beyond facts to create an engaging profile of exceptional personalities.
