Birth: February 12, 1809, in Shrewsbury, Shropshire, England
Family Background:
Father: Robert Waring Darwin, a prominent physician known for his size and stature.
Mother: Susannah Wedgwood, died when Charles was 8 years old.
Grandfather: Erasmus Darwin, a noted scientist who theorized evolution in the poem "The Loves of the Plants" and was a member of the Lunar Society of Birmingham.
Education:
Early education provided by his sister Caroline and later the Reverend G. Case.
Attended Dr. Butler's school in Shrewsbury, later enrolled at the University of Edinburgh at age 16.
University Life
University of Edinburgh: 1831-1833, where he became disillusioned with medicine due to poor teaching.
Transition to Clergy: Encouraged by father to pursue clergy; enrolled at Christ’s College, Cambridge.
Influences: Notable figures included JS Henslow (who arranged Darwin's voyage on the Beagle) and Adam Sedgwick (geologist).
Voyage of the Beagle
Departure: December 27, 1831, from Devonport as the ship's resident naturalist.
Research Focus: Studied various subjects including meteorology, biology, and geology.
Key Observations:
Explored the Cape Verde Islands, Brazil, and the Galápagos Islands.
Noted species variation, particularly finches, which later contributed to his theory of natural selection.
Development of the Theory of Evolution
Natural Selection: Observed variations among species and realized some traits were advantageous for survival.
Key Influences: Inspired by Malthus’ work on population control, which helped him finalize his theory of natural selection.
Publication: "Origin of Species" published in 1859, presenting evidence for evolution.
Later Life and Publications
Continued Research: Conducted extensive studies on various biological and botanical subjects.
Major Works: 10 additional publications post-Origin, including work on cross-pollination and sexual selection.
The Descent of Man: Explored human evolution and similarities with primates.
Challenges and Criticism
Criticism: Encountered opposition from religious figures and scientists like Adam Sedgwick and Richard Owen.
Legacy: Widely regarded as the father of modern biology and evolution, influencing scientific and social thought.
Final Years
Health Issues: Suffered from chronic illnesses but continued to publish and conduct research.
Death: April 19, 1882, buried in Westminster Abbey alongside Isaac Newton.
Conclusion
Legacy: Recognized for profound contributions to science and thought, sparking discussions on evolution that continue to this day.
Influence of Others: Acknowledgment of Alfred Wallace's contributions alongside Darwin's work.