The Feud That Almost Destroyed Palentology

The Bone Wars were a period of intense rivalry between paleontologists Edward Drinker Cope and Othniel Charles Marsh from 1864 to 1897. Their competition to discover new dinosaur species led to unethical practices, including dynamiting dig sites and hiring agents to steal fossils. Despite their destructive rivalry, they made significant contributions to paleontology, although many of their discoveries were later invalidated. Both men died with tarnished reputations, but their feud ultimately advanced the field. Joseph Leidy, Cope's mentor, emerged as a more successful figure, while the Smithsonian benefited from the fossil collections.

Who were the two main figures involved in the rivalry known as the Bone Wars?

What was the primary goal of Cope and Marsh during their rivalry?

Describe the nature of the rivalry between Cope and Marsh.

What were some of the unethical practices employed by Cope and Marsh?

How did the Bone Wars impact the field of paleontology?

What was the outcome of the rivalry for both Cope and Marsh?

What was the significance of Joseph Leidy in the context of the Bone Wars?

Explain the term 'Dinosaur rustlers' as used in the context of the Bone Wars.

What was Cope's final act of rivalry against Marsh as stated in his will?

Discuss the long-term effects of the Bone Wars on the reputation of paleontology.