Christen Smith

Christen Smith (1785–1816), also known as Christian or Chretien Smith, was a Norwegian physician, economist, and botanist who made significant contributions to natural history before his untimely death at 30 during an expedition to the Congo River. Born in Skoger, Norway, he studied medicine and botany at the University of Copenhagen under Professor Martin Vahl. He later joined Jens Wilken Hornemann on botanical expeditions across Norway, contributing to the *Flora Danica* project.

In 1814, Smith was appointed professor of national economy and botany at the newly founded Royal Frederick University in Christiania (Oslo), but he declined the position to pursue further travels. He joined a scientific expedition led by Prussian geologist Leopold von Buch to the Canary Islands and Madeira in 1815, collecting over 600 plant species, many of which were new to science.

Smith's death occurred during a Royal Society expedition to explore potential connections between the Congo River and Niger basins. Despite initial plans to use a steam-powered vessel, the expedition faced challenges including rapids, hostile locals, and tropical diseases. Smith succumbed to yellow fever on his return journey, leaving behind a collection of 620 plant species and a diary.

Smith's legacy includes numerous plant species named in his honor, such as *Pinus canariensis* and the genus *Christiana*. His work influenced later botanists, including Martin Richard Flor, who published some of his texts. Smith's Congo expedition also inspired Joseph Conrad's *Heart of Darkness*, reflecting its dramatic and tragic outcome.