Haenke in Bolivia
In 2026, the world will commemorate 210 years since the death of Thaddeus Haenke, a prominent figure in both Czech and global natural sciences. Despite his bust adorning the rear cornice of the National Museum's main building in Prague, Haenke remains largely unknown to the Czech public. However, experts in Latin American history are well aware of his contributions. Born in Chřibská and educated in Prague and Vienna, Haenke was a key member of the Malaspina expedition, funded by the Spanish crown. Often referred to as the "Czech Humboldt," he was not only an inventor, harpsichordist, polyglot, and physician but also a distinguished botanist who introduced numerous Latin American plants to Europe. His life ended under mysterious circumstances in Cochabamba, Bolivia—his adopted home—in 1816. Rumours persist that he was either poisoned by a maid or assassinated by royalists for supporting the indigenous independence movement.
Museum of Thaddeus Haenke in Chribska. (c) Vojtech Veskrna
In light of decolonisation efforts, figures like Haenke have come under critical reassessment. Although historically significant, Haenke, like many of his contemporaries, was involved in the extractivist policies of his time. While directly engaged in the colonial politics of his sponsors, historical records show that Haenke fostered positive relationships with indigenous communities and made significant contributions to public health, including the introduction of the first smallpox vaccinations in Latin America. His writings also bring attention to a pressing ecological issue: many of the plants he documented are now extinct or endangered due to biodiversity loss. This prompts important questions about how we evaluate colonial figures today—those whose actions have contributed to environmental crises, yet also offer invaluable insights into historical research and irreplaceable natural resources.
In early 2025, the project aims to retrace Haenke's steps and lay the groundwork for an exhibition exploring his contributions to scientific disciplines such as ethnobotany and ethnography. Julien will embark on his first trip as an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Montpellier, with the goal of establishing collaboration links with local universities and expanding the faculty’s herbarium collection, focusing on species of ethnobotanical significance, including fermented beverages, medicinal plants, textiles, and fibres. Andrea will reexamine Haenke's legacy from a social science perspective, investigating the circumstances of his death and the broader historical context of his work. Martina will study the changes in ethnobotanical knowledge over time, including the impact on biodiversity and the transmission of knowledge within the indigenous communities Haenke worked with, assessing whether the species he documented are still in use today. Johannes will apply his extensive experience from international development and project management in order to establish the project’s theoretical and practical background. Sash will focus on gathering material for the exhibition and a related book, documenting the journey through visual ethnography, and investigating local communities for the Designing Health project.
By visiting the regions Haenke once studied, we aim to compare their current biodiversity and cultural heritage with his historical accounts, and introduce his complex personal and professional legacy in decolonial perspectives. The exhibition will then feature photographs, videos, artifacts, and a comprehensive book designed to engage both academic and general audiences, all within the framework of a sustainable exhibition ethos.
Museum of Thaddeus Haenke in Chribska. (c) Vojtech Veskrna
For now, get the vibes from Cochabamba as per this mix on our favourite NTS Radio: