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Aimy BonplandFrench geographer and botanist
Date of Birth: 22.08.1773
Country:  France |
Content:
- French Botanist and Naturalist: Aimé Bonpland
- Expedicion to Spain
- Journey to the Americas
- Exploration of South America
- Discovery of the Casiquiare Canal
- Exploration of Cuba and Brazil
- Expedition in the Andes
- Peruvian Studies
- Return to Europe
- Later Life
French Botanist and Naturalist: Aimé Bonpland
Early LifeAimé Bonpland was born on August 22, 1773, in La Rochelle, France. His father, Simon-Jacques Goujaud-Bonpland, was a surgeon, and his mother was Marguerite-Olive de la Coste.
Expedicion to Spain
In 1799, Bonpland joined Alexander von Humboldt on an expedition to Spain. They traveled from Barcelona to La Coruña, gathering scientific data and establishing connections with Spanish authorities.
Journey to the Americas
In June 1799, Humboldt and Bonpland set sail from La Coruña for the Americas. They visited the Canary Islands and arrived in Venezuela in July.
Exploration of South America
Bonpland and Humboldt embarked on an extensive exploration of South America, venturing into the Amazon rainforest, ascending the Orinoco and Magdalena Rivers, and crossing the Andes Mountains. They studied the diverse flora and fauna, conducted geological observations, and collected numerous specimens.
Discovery of the Casiquiare Canal
In 1800, Bonpland and Humboldt made a significant discovery by navigating the Casiquiare Canal, a natural waterway that connects the Orinoco and Amazon River basins. This finding had important implications for understanding the hydrology of South America.
Exploration of Cuba and Brazil
In 1800, the explorers traveled to Cuba and conducted studies on the island's natural history. They subsequently journeyed to Brazil, exploring the Amazon rainforest and collecting botanical specimens.
Expedition in the Andes
Bonpland and Humboldt continued their exploration in the Andes, ascending the Chimborazo volcano in Ecuador to a record-breaking altitude of 5,759 meters. They also studied the volcanoes of the Equatorial Andes and conducted geological observations.
Peruvian Studies
In 1801, the explorers arrived in Peru and spent a year studying the country's rich natural resources. They collected plants, conducted zoological observations, and gained insights into Peruvian geography.
Return to Europe
In 1804, Bonpland and Humboldt returned to Europe with a wealth of scientific data and specimens. Bonpland published his findings in his influential work, "Voyage aux régions équinoxiales du Nouveau Continent" (1807-1834).
Later Life
After his return, Bonpland faced legal troubles and financial difficulties. He eventually settled in Argentina, where he continued his research and established an agricultural colony. Aimé Bonpland died on May 4, 1858, in Santa Ana, Argentina, at the age of 84.
