What method is recognized as the first scientifically developed system for criminal identification?

The method recognized as the first scientifically developed system for criminal identification is Bertillonage, which is sometimes referred to as anthropometry. This system was created by Alphonse Bertillon in the late 19th century and involved measuring various physical characteristics of individuals, such as the lengths of limbs and the shape of the head, to create a unique set of measurements specific to each person. This was crucial in identifying repeat offenders and distinguishing between individuals with similar names.

Bertillonage introduced a systematic approach to identification that laid the groundwork for modern fingerprinting and other identification techniques. While anthropometry is a part of Bertillonage, the system itself encompasses more than just physical measurements; it also included photographic records and descriptions of features.

Dermatoglyphics pertains more to the study of the patterns of skin ridges on fingers, palms, and other areas, but it is not recognized as the earliest method for criminal identification. The Franco-Prussian method is not a recognized method in the context of criminal identification systems.

Understanding the historical significance of Bertillonage is vital for any latent print examiner as it highlights the evolution of identification techniques in forensic science, paving the way for the adoption of fingerprinting as a reliable method of identifying individuals in legal