Introduction of Fingerprint, History

Introduction to Fingerprints

  • Dactylography: A scientific term derived from Greek, meaning the study of fingerprints.

  • Dactyloscopy: Refers to identifying individuals based on analyzing the lines on their fingertips.

  • Ridges and Furrows: Skin has a crisscross pattern; elevated lines are called ridges, while the spaces between them are termed furrows.

Fingerprint Characteristics

  1. Universality: Every person has fingerprints.

  2. Uniqueness: Each person's fingerprints differ, making them unique.

  3. Permanence: Fingerprints remain unchanged over a person’s lifetime.

  4. Acceptability: Fingerprints are widely accepted as reliable evidence for identification.

Historical Development of Fingerprinting

Notable Contributors in Fingerprint History (17th to 20th Century)

  • Dr. Nehemia Grew (1684): Dutch botanist who observed fingertip patterns and referred to sweat pores as "little fountains."

  • Marcello Malpighi (1686): Italian anatomist, studied fingerprints; his name is associated with a skin layer.

  • Thomas Bewick (1818): English engraver who utilized his fingerprints for identification, recognizing the individuality of fingerprints.

Early Applications of Fingerprints

  • Sir William Herschel (1858): Worked in India, utilized fingerprints for identifying pensioned soldiers, recognizing their permanence in life.

Forensic Development in Fingerprinting

  • Dr. Henry Faulds (1880): Suggested using fingerprints in crime scene investigations but faced challenges in getting support.

  • Sir Francis Galton (1822-1911): Provided significant research and developed a classification system for fingerprint patterns.

  • Sir E.R. Henry (1896): Established a classification system, which was subsequently endorsed by British authorities in India.

Important Figures in India's Fingerprint System

  • Khan Bahadur Azizul Haque: Collaborated with Henry to develop a mathematical formula for fingerprint classification using a 10-digit slip system.

  • Rai Bahadur Hem Chandra Bose: Created fundamental components of fingerprint classification with a system for digital identification.

Types of Fingerprint Patterns

General Classification

  • Patterns: Designs formed by ridges in fingerprints.

  • Pattern Area: Contains cores, deltas, and significant ridges for classification.

Specific Patterns

  • Arch Patterns: Ridges run parallel without upward thrusts; no deltas found.

  • Tented Arch: Similar to an arch but includes pronounced upward thrusts, forming an angular structure.

  • Loops: Ridges that enter from one side, recurve, and exit on the same side; may require counts between deltas.

  • Ulnar and Radial Loops: Defined by the side of finger entry (little finger vs. thumb).

  • Whorls: Contain two or more deltas with ridges forming circular patterns.

Fingerprint Classification System (Henry Classification)

  • Numbers Assigned: Each finger assigned a specific number based on its fingerprint pattern.

  • Primary Classification: Established using equations involving the assigned numbers; provides a unique identifier for individuals based on their patterns.

Developing Fingerprints in Forensics

Types of Fingerprint Evidence

  1. Latent Prints: Invisible prints made from perspiration or oils; require specific conditions to visualize.

  2. Visible Prints: Created with colored substances (blood, ink); easy to spot at crime scenes.

  3. Plastic Prints: Impressions made in soft materials; easily identifiable.

Techniques for Developing Latent Prints

  • Powder Application: Adheres to oils; lifted for analysis.

  • Iodine Fuming: Causes iodine to react with oils, providing temporary images.

  • Ninhydrin: Reacts with amino acids in sweat, producing visible prints that last temporarily.

Conclusion

Fingerprinting is a crucial aspect of forensic science, with historical significance and advanced methodologies for identification and evidence gathering.