The Life of Dian Fossey

By jmn3313

  • Dian Fossey is born

    Dian Fossey is born
    Dian Fossey was born

  • Graduation from SJSU

    Graduation from SJSU
    Dian Fossey graduated from San Jose State University with a degree in occupational therapy.

  • Takes First Trip to Africa

    Takes First Trip to Africa
    Fulfilling her dream to visit Africa, Dian Fossey arrives in Kenya for the first time.

  • Convinces Louis Leakey to Study in Africa

    Convinces Louis Leakey to Study in Africa
    After attending one of his conferences, Dian Fossey approaches Louis Leakey and convinces him to allow her to use her background in occupational therapy to study and work with gorillas in Africa.

  • Arrives in Nairobi to Begin Working with Gorillas

    Dian Fossey arrives to begin her work studying the mountain gorillas in the Congo region.

  • Arrives in the Congo and begins gorilla tracking in Kabara.

    Arrives in the Congo and begins gorilla tracking in Kabara.

  • Moves to Rwanda, Establishes Karisoke Research Center

    Moves to Rwanda, Establishes Karisoke Research Center
    After being forcibly moved from her camp in the Congo, Dian Fossey moves to Rwanda, and establishes the Karisoke Research Center, which still exists and thrives today.

  • National Geographic Propels Dian Fossey to International Attention

    National Geographic Propels Dian Fossey to International Attention
    Renowned National Geographic photographer Bob Campbell publishes photos of Dian Fossey on the cover of the magazine, introducing her to the world and bringing international attention to her work and the true gentle nature of the gorillas.

  • Completed Ph.D. at Cambridge University

    Feeling that her work would not be taken as seriously without an accompanying degree, Dian Fossey travels between Africa and Cambridge to attain her Ph.D. in animal behavior.

  • Digit the Gorilla is Killed by Poachers

    Digit the Gorilla is Killed by Poachers
    Digit, a gorilla that Dian Fossey befriended and spent much time with was killed by poachers. He was laid to rest behind Dian Fossey's cabin.

  • "Gorillas in the Mist" is Published

    "Gorillas in the Mist" is Published
    Dian Fossey's book, Gorillas in the Mist, is published. It was later made into a movie featuring Sigourney Weaver.

  • Dian Fossey Tragically Dies

    Dian Fossey Tragically Dies
    Murdered in her cabin, Dian Fossey dies nearing her 54th birthday. She is laid to rest next to Digit, near the Karisoke Research Center. Her work continues to this day. As a result of her work, the silverback gorillas have recovered from "near extinction" status.