Understanding the functional architecture of cortical tissue in the XIXth century

This paper outlines the historical development of the idea that the cerebral cortex is responsible for the integration of sensory information and the co-ordination of complex movement patterns. The concept of a functional compartmentalisation of the cortex was developed in the 19th century, based on electrophysiological experiments. In spite of conceptual frameworks like those of Meynert and Wernicke, neuroanatomy did not contribute significantly to the conceptual development of neurobiology during the end of the 19th century. For electrophysiologists, an analysis of neuronal connections in the cortex was of minor interest. Data about the fine texture of the brain did not significantly influence the development of early 20th century neurobiology.