Who was the first American fingerprint lecturer?

The correct answer is Mary Holland, who is recognized as the first American fingerprint lecturer. Mary Holland made significant contributions to the field of fingerprinting and was instrumental in educating others about the use of fingerprints for identification purposes. Her work helped to establish fingerprinting as a legitimate scientific method of identification in the United States.

Her role as a lecturer was pivotal, as it allowed her to share her expertise and advocate for the integration of fingerprinting in various fields, including criminal justice. Holland's influence not only advanced the practice but also set the stage for future developments in forensic science related to fingerprints.

In contrast, figures like Edward Foster and H. MacDonald, while relevant to the history of fingerprinting, did not hold the distinction of being the first American fingerprint lecturer. Sir William Herschel, although an important figure in fingerprint history internationally, was British and did not occupy a position as an American lecturer in the field.