Who is regarded as the father of American anthropology?

Franz Boas is often regarded as the "father of American anthropology." Boas was a German-American anthropologist who made significant contributions to the development of anthropology as an academic discipline in the United States. He is known for his pioneering work in cultural anthropology, physical anthropology, and linguistics, as well as for his advocacy of cultural relativism and opposition to racism.

Boas played a central role in establishing anthropology as a rigorous and scientific discipline grounded in empirical research and ethnographic fieldwork. He emphasized the importance of studying cultures in their particular historical and environmental contexts, challenging the prevailing notion of cultural evolutionism and racial determinism.

Through his influential writings, teaching, and mentorship, Boas trained a generation of anthropologists who went on to shape the field in the United States and beyond. His students included notable figures such as Ruth Benedict, Margaret Mead, Edward Sapir, and Zora Neale Hurston, among others.

Boas's legacy extends beyond his academic contributions. He was a staunch advocate for social justice and human rights, using anthropology as a tool to challenge racial stereotypes and promote cultural diversity and understanding. His work laid the foundation for modern American anthropology and continues to inspire anthropologists today.