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Humboldt (ALEXANDER VON h m'b lt)

ALEXANDER VON (höm'bōlt), a distinguished German scientist; born in Berlin, Sept. 14, 1769. From childhood he delighted in zoölogi- HUMBOLDT cal, physical, and geographical investigations. At 28, he began the series of voyages memorable in the annals of science. No name is likely ever to stand higher on his country's roll than his.

The "Cosmos" is a sufficient proof.

This monumental work on the physical universe was published in 4 volumes in 1845, 1847, 1850 and 1858 and immediately translated into all civilized languages. A book is needed to describe the extent of Humboldt's contribution to science. Consult Stoddart's "Life, Travels, and Books of A. von Humboldt."