Jeanne Baret (1740–1807) was a French botanist and explorer who made significant contributions to the field of plant science. She is particularly notable for being the first woman to circumnavigate the globe, although she did so in disguise as a man.

Key points about Jeanne Baret include:

1. Background: Jeanne Baret was born in Autun, France, in 1740. She had an interest in plants and became a skilled botanist.
2. Collaboration with Philibert Commerson: Baret worked as a housekeeper and assistant to the botanist Philibert Commerson. Commerson was invited to join Louis Antoine de Bougainville’s expedition around the world, and Baret accompanied him in 1766. To avoid the prohibition of women on French Navy ships, she disguised herself as a man, using the name “Jean Baret.”
3. Circumnavigation: Baret and Commerson set sail on the ship Etoile (later replaced by the Boudeuse) in 1766 as part of Bougainville’s expedition. Their journey took them to various places, including South America, Tahiti, and Mauritius.
4. Botanical Discoveries: During the expedition, Baret and Commerson collected numerous plant specimens, including many that were new to science. Commerson named the plant genus “Baretia” in her honor.
5. Discovery of Bougainvillea: The Bougainvillea plant was discovered during the expedition and named after Louis Antoine de Bougainville. It was Commerson who made this botanical discovery.
6. Return to France: The expedition concluded in 1769, and Baret and Commerson returned to France. Commerson’s health had deteriorated during the journey, and he died in 1773.
7. Recognition of Baret’s Accomplishments: Despite the challenges she faced during the expedition, Baret’s contributions to botanical science were recognized. The French government eventually granted her a pension in acknowledgment of her achievements.
8. Later Life: After the expedition, Jeanne Baret married a former fellow crew member, Jean Dubernat, and they settled in the region of Burgundy, France. She continued her involvement in botanical activities.
9. Legacy: Jeanne Baret is remembered as a pioneering woman in the field of botany, having played a crucial role in the collection and discovery of numerous plant species during a significant scientific expedition.

Jeanne Baret’s story reflects the challenges faced by women seeking to participate in scientific exploration during an era when such endeavors were often restricted to men. Her courage and contributions to botany have gained recognition in later years as her remarkable journey and achievements have come to light.