Observations at sea, and ensuing logging of oceanographic data, was done centuries ago by captains according to norms varying from one flag to another. The idea to set up a uniform system and a "corps of observers" lies at the basis of the "First International Conference" on meteorology and oceanography (Brussels, 1853). Maury and Quetelet were central figures of the event. Quetelet is known as perhaps the first major organizer of international meetings. He is also considered as the "father of modern statistics". Maury is, for many historians and oceanographers alike, the "father of oceanography". Whether these reputations are deserved is not crucial, but they were the cogs that animated the first international conference on meteorology and oceanography.
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