George Hampson was born on January 14, 1860, in England. He developed a passion for entomology at a young age, fascinated by the diversity and beauty of butterflies and moths. This interest was further ignited during a trip to Tamil, where he was exposed to the rich biodiversity of the region. This experience sparked his desire to study these insects in more depth.
Hampson dedicated his life to the study of Lepidoptera, a passion that led him to publish his seminal work, The Lepidoptera of the Nilgiri District, in 1891. This work established him as a leading entomologist and solidified his reputation in the scientific community. In 1901, he was appointed as the acting Assistant Keeper of the Natural History Museum, a position that allowed him to further his research and contribute significantly to the field of entomology.
One of Hampson's most notable contributions to the field of entomology was his publication of Illustrations of Typical Specimens of Lepidoptera Heterocera of the British Museum. This work showcased his meticulous attention to detail and his deep understanding of butterfly and moth species, earning him widespread acclaim in the scientific community.
In 1893, Hampson married Minnie Frances Clark-Kennedy, with whom he had three children. Despite his busy career as a biologist, he always made time for his family, instilling in his children a love for the natural world and a passion for scientific discovery.
George Hampson's contributions to the field of entomology continue to influence researchers and scientists to this day. His groundbreaking research and meticulous attention to detail have left an indelible mark on the study of Lepidoptera, inspiring future generations of entomologists to push the boundaries of scientific knowledge.
Peter Twinn, another renowned British entomologist, worked alongside Hampson in the field of Lepidoptera research. Together, they collaborated on various projects and publications, further solidifying their legacies as pioneers in the study of butterflies and moths.