Questions about Nature (journal)

Short answers, pulled from the story.

When was Nature journal founded and by whom?

Nature journal was founded in the autumn of 1869 by Norman Lockyer. Lockyer launched the publication as a weekly journal to serve as a public forum for scientific innovations.

What is the origin of the name Nature for the British scientific journal?

The name came from a line by William Wordsworth stating that minds trust to the solid ground of nature. This choice signaled an intent to connect cultivated readers with advances in knowledge rather than just specialists.

Who were the editors of Nature between 1945 and 2018?

A. J. V. Gale and L. J. F. Brimble took over first before Brimble became sole editor in 1958. John Maddox assumed control in 1965 and returned again in 1980 retaining the position until 1995, while Philip Campbell became editor-in-chief of all Nature publications until 2018 when Magdalena Skipper took the role.

Which major scientific discoveries were published in Nature during its history?

The structure of DNA was published here in 1953 despite not undergoing standard peer review at that time. Other major discoveries featured include the neutron, nuclear fission, plate tectonics, pulsars, and the ozone hole.

When did Nature open its Washington office and expand internationally?

Nature opened its Washington office in 1970 marking the beginning of international expansion. Other branches followed including New York in 1985, Tokyo and Munich in 1987, Paris in 1989, San Francisco in 2001, Boston in 2004, and Hong Kong in 2005.