William Smith (archeologist)

William Smith was a pioneering English geologist and archaeologist known as the "Father of English Geology." In the early 19th century, he developed the first detailed geological map of England and Wales by studying the layers of rocks beneath the surface. His work revealed that different fossils appeared in predictable sequences within these layers, allowing scientists to date and correlate ancient rocks across regions. This groundbreaking approach laid the foundation for modern geology and stratigraphy, helping us understand Earth's history and the distribution of fossils and rocks. Smith's contributions significantly advanced the scientific study of Earth's natural history.