Alexander von Humboldt

Alexander von Humboldt surveying the entire world in 'Cosmos' 29.07.2019

Humboldt returned to Berlin in 1827 after working for two decades in Paris. For the next 30 years, he labored over his most ambitious project to unite everything known about the whole universe in a single work, "Cosmos."

How Alexander von Humboldt put South America on the map 12.07.2019

After an unprecedented five-year tour of South America, Mexico and Cuba, Humboldt returned to Europe a hero. Not only was he honored for surviving such an expedition, he freely shared all of his newly acquired knowledge.

Alexander von Humboldt: Adventurer with intellect 17.06.2019

He traveled not to conquer, but to explore. Alexander von Humboldt always kept nature in view - and his pen at the ready to record everything he saw.

Cultivating a prodigy: Learning to be Alexander von Humboldt 05.06.2019

Germany's greatest universal scientist had an auspicious start. Born into a respectable Prussian family, his mother arranged the best education possible, despite Berlin's provincial status and famous military obsession.

What's in a name? The Humboldt edition 05.06.2019

The name Alexander von Humboldt may not be instantly recognizable, but it is plastered across the globe in seemingly endless ways. From mountains and squids to schools and flowers, the Prussian explorer is omnipresent.

What's a Humboldt? Reflections on the elusive Prussian genius 05.06.2019

Alexander von Humboldt is known throughout Germany and South America. But when DW's Timothy Rooks first encountered him he had no idea what a Humboldt was. Searching for answers led him on a 15-year journey of discovery.

German President Steinmeier: 'We only have this one planet' 14.02.2019

Celebrated German explorer Alexander von Humboldt was born 250 years ago. Far ahead of his time, he warned of the critical importance of protecting nature. Now Germany's president is following in his footsteps.

Germany's President Steinmeier praises Colombia, Ecuador over Venezuela refugees 12.02.2019

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier urged new elections in Venezuela after starting his Latin America tour in neighboring Colombia. He praised Colombia and Ecuador for helping Venezuelan refugees.

Germany's original eco pioneer 20.03.2017

German natural scientist Alexander von Humboldt was a legend in his day. We meet the author of a new book which remembers the 19th century adventurer and explains why his research remains relevant.

German-Turkish scientific cooperation in danger 25.07.2016

German and Turkish universities, as well as various scientific organizations, are closely integrated. Recent purges and restrictions against freedom of research may harm the successful cooperation for years to come.

Humboldt 'America' diaries to stay in Germany 04.12.2013

Diaries written by the famed German explorer Alexander von Humboldt as he toured central and southern America 200 years ago are to be sold by his descendants. Germany's Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation is the buyer.

Shipping industry faces rough economic waters 31.05.2013

The world's largest cargo ship, the "Alexander von Humboldt," was christened in Hamburg. But crisis continues to grip the shipping industry, and many German companies could go under before the situation improves.

Will Humboldt's journals go under the hammer? 27.05.2013

Alexander von Humboldt's scientific journals aren't under state protection and could be auctioned to a private owner. If that happens, the public may lose access to one of the world's most important research projects.

Naturalist Humboldt revolutionized scientific study 06.05.2009

One of the most influential scientists of the 19th century, Alexander von Humboldt was equally at home in the salons of Paris as on research voyages in South and Latin Americas' jungles. He died in Berlin 150 years ago.

Bringing the Brains Back Home 07.10.2004

The GAIN network, an initiative started to help lure German researchers home, is celebrating its first anniversary. A number of similar programs have sprung up, but are they working?

Crippling Bureaucracy But Great Beer 21.06.2004