Guide Note
Charles Darwin was an English naturalist whose work advocates the process of natural selection as the engine of evolution.
Fast Facts
- Born: February 12, 1809
- Birthplace: Shropshire, England
- Died: April 19, 1882
- Fields of study: Natural sciences, geology
- Awards: Royal Medal (1853), Wollaston Medal (1859), Copley Medal (1864)
Career
Charles Darwin considered becoming a surgeon and entering the clergy before his fascination with natural history and a family connection placed him on the second voyage of the HMS Beagle. During his five years on that ship, Darwin collected hundreds of specimens and made copious notes from his observations. His labors established him as a naturalist of note and prompted him to develop his ideas on evolution.
On the Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection, or The Preservation of Favoured Races in the Struggle for Life was published on November 22, 1859. The book, which Darwin delayed publishing, presents a testable theory (natural selection) to explain the process of evolution.
Notable Works
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