Gregorio Chil y Naranjo facts for kids

Gregorio Chil y Naranjo (born 13 March 1831, Telde, Gran Canaria, died 4 July 1901 Las Palmas) was a Spanish doctor, historian, and expert on human cultures.

A Young Scholar's Journey

Gregorio Chil y Naranjo was born on March 13, 1831, in Telde, Gran Canaria. He learned a lot at home from his father. Later, he went to a special school in Las Palmas called a seminary, finishing in 1847.

At first, Gregorio thought about becoming a priest. But he soon decided he wanted to study medicine instead. His uncle, who was a church leader in Telde, helped him financially. This allowed Gregorio to travel to Paris, France, to pursue his medical studies.

Studying Medicine and Anthropology

Starting in 1848, Gregorio studied hard in Paris. He earned his medical degree and finished his advanced studies in 1857. During his time in Paris, he became very interested in anthropology. This is the study of humans, their societies, cultures, and how they developed.

After a short time working at the University of Cadiz in Spain, he returned to his home, Gran Canaria. He opened his own medical practice in Las Palmas. Even while working as a doctor, he often traveled to attend meetings about anthropology.

Discovering Ancient Canary Islanders

Gregorio spent a lot of time researching the first people who lived in the Canary Islands. He read many old books by historians and writers. He also collected many ancient objects and remains. These included mummies, skulls, bones, pottery, and old fabrics.

These valuable items later became part of a special collection. This collection would form the beginning of the Museo Canario, a museum dedicated to the history of the Canary Islands.

A Book and a Big Disagreement

After more than 15 years of research, Gregorio published an important book in 1876. It was called Estudios históricos, climatológicos y patológicos de las islas Canarias. The book was very popular in the Canary Islands.

However, some of his ideas in the book caused a big stir. Gregorio agreed with new scientific theories about human origins. These ideas came from scientists like Jean-Baptiste Lamarck and Charles Darwin. At that time, these scientific theories were very different from what the church believed. Because of this, the local church leaders had a serious disagreement with him.

Founding the Museo Canario

In 1879, Gregorio Chil y Naranjo led a group of smart people to create the Museo Canario. This museum was first located on the third floor of the Las Palmas City Hall. The museum became Gregorio's most important gift to the Canary Islands.

He stayed connected to the museum his whole life. He dedicated most of his work to it and served as its director for many years.

Later Life and Legacy

Gregorio Chil y Naranjo passed away on July 4, 1901, at the age of 70. He died from heart disease. In his will, he made sure that his house in Las Palmas would become the main building for the Museo Canario after his wife, Rosenda Suárez Tascón, passed away.

Today, the Museo Canario continues to share the history and culture of the Canary Islands. It stands as a lasting reminder of Gregorio Chil y Naranjo's dedication to science and history.

See also

In Spanish: Gregorio Chil y Naranjo para niños