Charles Darwin

About

Charles Darwin was a renowned English naturalist, geologist, and biologist, born on February 12, 1809, in Shrewsbury, England. He is best known for his groundbreaking theory of evolution by natural selection, which he introduced in his book On the Origin of Species in 1859. This theory posits that species evolve over time through the survival and reproduction of individuals with advantageous traits. Darwin's work on evolution was influenced by his five-year voyage aboard the HMS Beagle, where he collected specimens and observed diverse wildlife, including the Galapagos finches. Darwin's contributions extend beyond evolution. He published several notable works, including The Descent of Man and The Expression of the Emotions in Man and Animals. His research on plants and earthworms further demonstrated the power of natural selection. Darwin was a fellow of several prestigious societies and received the Copley Medal in 1864. He married Emma Wedgwood in 1839 and had ten children. Darwin's legacy is profound, shaping modern biology and influencing various fields of science and philosophy. He passed away on April 19, 1882, and was buried in Westminster Abbey, a testament to his impact on British society.