The contribution of Friedrich Albert Fallou to modern soil science

This article deals with Friedrich Albert Fallou (1794–1877), a lawyer by education strong interest for soil and geology who published “Pedologie oder allgemeine und besondere Bodenkunde” in 1862, that is, 20 years before Dokuchaev's (1883) “Russian Chernozem.” He is known having coined the term of “pedology” but his role development science needs recognition, opinions diverging this far regard to importance terms pedogenesis, profile, classification influence on Dokuchaev. The authors present have translated into French analyzed detail each chapters constituting first part (“Allgemeine 198 pp.) book. These pages include many precise descriptions soils small area near Fallou's place residence hilly Saxony (NE Germany) bear evidence remarkable skills as nature observer. His field experience led him strongly recommend should be studied situ, using existing cuts, either natural or artificial. was strive “Earth” recognized “Kingdom” its own study established an independent benefit wide range potential stakeholders. review intended demonstrate despite some shortcomings due sticking few outdated basic scientific conceptions, fully deserves regarded important forerunner modern science.