Charles Darwin by Julia Margaret Cameron

Charles Darwin (1809–1882) was an English naturalist, geologist, and biologist best known for his contributions to the theory of evolution. His most famous work, On the Origin of Species (1859), proposed the theory that species evolve over time through a process of natural selection. This groundbreaking idea revolutionized the understanding of biology and laid the foundation for modern evolutionary theory.

Darwin was born in Shrewsbury, England, and initially studied medicine before pursuing a degree in theology. However, his interest in natural history led him to a career in science. In 1831, he embarked on a five-year voyage aboard HMS Beagle, which took him to various parts of the world, including the Galápagos Islands. During this journey, he made observations of different species and ecosystems, which later became crucial to the development of his ideas about evolution.

Darwin’s observations, particularly of the finches in the Galápagos, revealed that species adapted to their environment in different ways, leading him to propose that species gradually change over time as a result of natural selection. This idea challenged the prevailing belief in the immutability of species and provided an explanation for the diversity of life on Earth.

Darwin’s theory of evolution faced significant opposition during his lifetime, especially from religious and scientific communities. However, over time, the evidence supporting his theory grew stronger, and it became widely accepted. In addition to On the Origin of Species, Darwin published numerous other works, including The Descent of Man (1871), which applied his theory of evolution to human beings.

Darwin’s work had a profound impact on science, philosophy, and society. He is considered one of the most influential scientists in history, and his ideas continue to shape the fields of biology, genetics, and anthropology today. He died in 1882, leaving behind a legacy that forever changed the way we understand the natural world.