Jane Goodall Analysis

Before attending the Jane Goodall talk, I knew very little about her and her research. I knew she was the woman that had profound knowledge of chimpanzees and has been greatly rewarded and respected for her efforts. However, after attending I have an entirely new perspective and understanding of Jane Goodall. Her lecture was not only very informational but also very enjoyable. She is not only great at what she does with the chimpanzees; she is also a great communicator. The way she informed the audience about her times in Gombe, her education, and conservation efforts through detailed stories was fascinating. It was very interesting to me to hear how alike the chimpanzees were to humans. She said that it is amazing to see how they use such similar gestures as we do; such as hugging, kissing, shaking hands, waving, begging for food, and etc. I also enjoyed hearing about how she got to where she is today. She mentioned that she loved what she was doing while researching in Africa, she got married and had a child. But she asked why did she leave. She left because her life changed after attending a conference in Chicago. After going to break out sessions about forest conservation, chimpanzees’ conditions and captivities, and more, she knew she had to do something. She went into the conference a researcher but left an
activist. I thought it was so inspirational hearing that story and how dedicated to the chimpanzees she is. And to top it off she said since that conference she has been traveling the world and hasn’t been in the same place for more than 3 weeks in row! Another part of the lecture that I loved was her videos.
The first one she played was clips of her in all different parts of the world educating younger children on conservation mechanisms and endangered animals like the chimpanzees. It was really interesting to see her doing that in such different parts of the world. The other video that she ended the lecture with was very touching. It started by showing a very skinny chimpanzee that had almost died and then showed it being released into the wild. But before running off the chimpanzee jumped onto the cage and hugged Jane. It was so endearing and loving, I was teary-eyed watching
it. All in all Jane Goodall’s talk was very moving and enjoyable to listen to. She has a deep love for the chimpanzees and has had an amazing effect on them that will last forever.