Essence and origin of Mendel's discovery

In early 19th-century Moravia, breeders of animals and plants joined with o ther interested citizens in the Moravian and Silesian Agricultural Society to debate economic priorities. Several of the senior members had a profound influence upon breeding theory: J.K. Nestler, Professor of Natural History and Agriculture at the University of Olomouc, left a collection of influen tial writings. In the context of sheep breeding he defined 'inheritance cap acity' (Vererbungsfahigkeit), 'hereditary history' (Vererbungsgeschichte) a nd 'developmental history' (Entwicklungsgeschichte). His linking of the las t two terms, as two sides of the same coin, puts Mendel's use of the second one in context. Professor F. Diebl taught the same topics as Nestler at th e Philosophical Institute in Brno, with a bias towards plants. Diebl's lect ures were attended by Mendel who gained top marks in three examinations. Di ebl stressed the importance of artificial pollination to produce new variet ies and recognised peas and beans as suitable subjects for the procedure. P relate Cyrill Napp, abbot before Mendel, had a deep interest in heredity an d how it was transmitted through both sexes. He generously supported Mendel 's research. A happy blend of economic and academic influences, together wi th original talent and inner drive, led to Mendel's great discovery. (C) 20 00 Academie des sciences/Editions scientifiques ct medicales Elsevier SAS.