The science of genetics can trace its origins to biologist Gregor Mendel. In meticulous studies with pea plants, Mendel acquired the experimental data necessary to formulate the laws of heredity.

Born in Heinzendorf, Austria (now the Czech Republic), Mendel was the son of a peasant farmer and the grandson of a gardener. As a child, Mendel benefited from the progressive education provided by the local vicar, and he eventually enrolled at the Philosophical Institute in Olmutz (now Olomouc). However, Mendel's worsening financial condition repeatedly forced him to suspend his studies, and in 1843, he entered the Augustinian monastery at Brünn (now Brno).

Although Mendel felt no personal vocation at the time, he believed that the monastery would provide him the best opportunity to pursue his education without the financial worries. He took the name Gregor and eventually was placed in charge of the monastery's experimental garden. In...