David Starr Jordan

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Portrait of Susan Bowen Jordan
David Starr Jordan House
Jordan Hall Stanford
Picture of David Starr Jordan in 1868
David Starr Jordan in 1880
Picture of Prof. David Starr Jordan
David Starr Jordan
File:David Starr Jordan 2.jpg
David Starr Jordan
Born(1851-01-19)January 19, 1851
DiedSeptember 19, 1931(1931-09-19) (aged 80)
NationalityAmerican
Alma materCornell University, Indiana University Bloomington
Scientific career
FieldsIchthyology
InstitutionsIndiana University Bloomington, Stanford University



David Starr Jordan (January 19, 1851 – September 19, 1931) was an American ichthyologist, educator, and peace activist. He was the founding president of Stanford University and a leading figure in the field of ichthyology, the study of fish.

Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]

David Starr Jordan was born in Gainesville, New York. He developed an early interest in natural history and attended Cornell University, where he studied under Louis Agassiz. He graduated in 1872 and later earned a medical degree from Indiana University Bloomington.

Academic Career[edit | edit source]

Jordan began his academic career as a professor of biology at Butler University in Indianapolis. He later joined the faculty at Indiana University Bloomington, where he became the president in 1885. During his tenure, he significantly expanded the university's curriculum and research capabilities.

In 1891, Jordan was appointed the first president of Stanford University. He played a crucial role in shaping the university's early development and academic programs. His tenure at Stanford was marked by his advocacy for academic freedom and his efforts to promote scientific research.

Contributions to Ichthyology[edit | edit source]

Jordan was a prolific researcher in the field of ichthyology. He described numerous species of fish and published extensively on the subject. His works include "The Fishes of North and Middle America" and "A Guide to the Study of Fishes." His contributions to the field earned him recognition as one of the leading ichthyologists of his time.

Peace Activism[edit | edit source]

In addition to his scientific work, Jordan was a committed peace activist. He was involved in various peace organizations and wrote extensively on the subject of peace and international relations. He believed that education and scientific cooperation were essential for promoting global peace.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

David Starr Jordan's legacy is multifaceted, encompassing his contributions to science, education, and peace activism. His work in ichthyology remains influential, and his efforts in founding and shaping Stanford University have left a lasting impact on higher education.

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