Charles Darwin, a 19th-century English naturalist, changed the world with his controversial theories. On November 24, 1859, he challenged the scientific view of biology by publishing his book, On the Origin of Species, in which he explained how life and all its creatures evolve and adapt over time to survive. His groundbreaking ideas continue to be debated today.

Early Life

Charles Darwin was born into a large and wealthy family in England in 1809. He was the fifth of six children, and his father was a well-respected doctor in the community of Shrewsbury. From a young age, Darwin had a fascination with nature and the outdoors. He loved collecting rocks and bugs to study. At the age of 13, he even set up his own laboratory in his family’s garden shed to explore the world around him.

Noting his son’s interest in science, his father encouraged him to pursue a career in medicine. He started his studies at the University of Edinburgh Medical School but dropped out because he felt squeamish during surgeries. He then enrolled at Christ’s College in Cambridge, initially intending to become an Anglican parson. However, he found that he enjoyed spending time outdoors more than studying. His professors at Cambridge encouraged his interest in nature. 

A Life-Changing Voyage 

In 1831, Charles Darwin was recommended for a voyage on the HMS Beagle as an unpaid naturalist. The ship’s captain aimed to map the coast of South America, and although the expedition was primarily for navigation rather than scientific study, they welcomed Darwin aboard to conduct research. The initial trip was planned to last only two years, but it ultimately took five years and effectively circumnavigated the globe. 

Darwin referred to this voyage as the “most important event in his life,” as it provided him with critical data to support his burgeoning theory: that all life adapts and evolves.

On November 24, 1859, three years after returning from his voyage on the HMS Beagle, Charles Darwin published On the Origin of Species. This work introduced his theories of evolution by natural selection to both the scientific community and the world at large. Darwin argued that all species evolve through the survival of individuals with the most advantageous genetic variations. His theories were supported by data collected during his five-year journey.  

Controversial Impact 

The publication of Darwin’s work was marked by both commercial success and immediate controversy. It sold out on its first day, but reactions to it were mixed. The scientific community largely supported his ideas, while religious groups believed the work challenged the teachings of the Bible. This led to widespread debate and criticism, but it also received significant praise. However, regardless of its controversy, the profound impact that On the Origin of Species had on the field of biology cannot be understated. The core ideas presented continue to serve as the foundation of modern biology.