Multivariate analysis: some reminiscences on its origin and development

The article traces the history of multivariate analysis, the pioneering contributions of R. A. Fisher, the development of multivariate statistical methodology for applications in various fields under the guidance of Fisher, the work of the Indian School of Statisticians under the leadership of P. C. Mahalanobis, the author's experience in the statistical analyses of three large bodies of anthropometric data, and some of the modern trends of research. The origin and development of multivariate analysis clearly show that contact with live problems is essential for worthwhile research in statistical methodology