Despite the increasing use of DNA evidence in crime solving, fingerprints still serve as an indispensable tool of modern-day criminal investigation. This book, originally published in 1892, offers an investigation of this anatomical peculiarity and its application in establishing individual identity for use in law enforcement.

Galton's system was later modified by Sir Edward R Henry, who became chief of police in London. In 1901, Scotland Yard officially adopted the Galton-Henry system of fingerprinting. Today, it is the most widely used system of fingerprint classification in the world. This classic work will make a welcome addition to the libraries of historians, criminologists, and fans of true crime and forensic science.

Introduction
Previous Use of Finger Prints
Methods of Printing
The ridges and their Uses
Patterns
Their Outlines and Cores
Persistence
Evidential Value
Peculiarities of the Digits
Methods of Indexing
Personal Identification
Heredity
Races and Classes
Genera.