Carl Linnaeus

Carl Linnaeus, also known as Carolus Linnaeus, was a Swedish botanist and naturalist who created the binomial classification system and is considered the father of modern taxonomy.

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Profession :

Botanist

Birthday :

May 23, 1707

Death Date:

January 10, 1778

Age :

70

Carl Linnaeus, also referred to as Carolus Linnaeus, was a renowned Swedish botanist, zoologist, and physician, often regarded as the founder of modern taxonomy. He is best known for creating the binomial nomenclature system, which is still employed today to identify and classify living organisms. Among his most notable works are “Systema Naturae” and “Species Plantarum.” As a member of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, Linnaeus received the esteemed Copley Medal.

In 1774, Linnaeus experienced a stroke that resulted in partial paralysis. However, this did not impede his contributions to the scientific community. He continued to engage with visitors, correspond with peers, and even published an essay on the significance of exercise in preventing illness. Although his productivity declined, he remained a respected figure until his death in 1778.

An intriguing fact about Carl Linnaeus is that his remains serve as the type specimen for the Homo sapiens species, as he is known to have examined himself.