This document discusses the history and scientific development of fingerprint identification. It notes several key figures from the 17th century onwards who made important discoveries about fingerprint patterns and their potential for identification, including Malpighi, Purkenje, and Galton. In the late 19th century, Faulds, Herschel and Galton established fingerprints as a method for positive identification. The document also describes the layers of friction skin and the principles of fingerprint identification, permanence and individuality.