Alexander H. Rice Jr.

Alexander Hamilton Rice Jr in the field

Alexander Hamilton Rice Jr. (August 29, 1875 – July 21, 1956) was an American physician, geographer, geologist, and explorer. He is best known for his extensive explorations of the Amazon Basin and his contributions to the field of geography.

Early Life and Education

Rice was born in Boston, Massachusetts, to a prominent family. He was the grandson of Alexander H. Rice, a former Governor of Massachusetts and Mayor of Boston. Rice Jr. attended Harvard University, where he earned his undergraduate degree in 1898. He later received his medical degree from Harvard Medical School in 1904.

Career

Medical Career

After completing his medical degree, Rice worked as a physician in Boston. He was particularly interested in tropical medicine, which led him to study diseases prevalent in the Amazon region.

Explorations

Rice's passion for exploration took him to the Amazon Basin multiple times. He led several expeditions to map uncharted territories and study the region's geography and geology. His work significantly contributed to the understanding of the Amazon's complex river systems and diverse ecosystems.

Academic Contributions

Rice held various academic positions throughout his career. He was a professor of geography at Harvard University and a member of several prestigious scientific societies, including the American Geographical Society and the Royal Geographical Society.

Personal Life

Rice married Eleanor Elkins Widener, a prominent socialite and philanthropist, in 1915. The couple was known for their philanthropic efforts, particularly in the fields of education and healthcare.

Legacy

Alexander H. Rice Jr.'s contributions to medicine, geography, and exploration have left a lasting impact. His work in the Amazon Basin remains a significant part of the scientific understanding of the region.

See Also

• Amazon Basin
• Geography
• Harvard University
• Harvard Medical School
• American Geographical Society
• Royal Geographical Society