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Charles Darwin

Charles Darwin was an English naturalist best known for developing the theory of evolution by natural selection.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated September 10, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Charles Darwin was an English naturalist best known for developing the theory of evolution by natural selection. His 1859 book *On the Origin of Species* presented evidence for common descent and helped establish modern evolutionary biology.

Early life and education

Darwin was born into a prominent English family and studied at Edinburgh and Cambridge. His early training led him toward natural history rather than a medical or clerical career.

Voyage on HMS Beagle

From 1831 to 1836, Darwin travelled as a naturalist aboard HMS *Beagle*. His field observations of plants, animals, and geology during the voyage became central to his later thinking.

Theory of evolution by natural selection

Darwin proposed that species change over time through natural selection, with inherited variation affecting survival and reproduction. His theory offered a mechanism for common descent and became foundational to modern evolutionary biology.

On the Origin of Species

Published in 1859, *On the Origin of Species* set out Darwin’s evidence and argument for evolution. The book had a major impact on science and public debate.

Key facts

  • Darwin is widely regarded as the central figure in the development of evolutionary theory by natural selection.
  • He was born in Shrewsbury, England, in 1809 and died in Downe, Kent, in 1882.
  • He studied at the University of Edinburgh and the University of Cambridge before serving as a naturalist on HMS *Beagle*.
  • His observations during the *Beagle* voyage helped shape his later scientific work.
  • *On the Origin of Species* was published in 1859 and became the key statement of his theory.

Frequently asked questions

Who was Charles Darwin?
Charles Darwin was an English naturalist best known for explaining evolution by natural selection.
What is Darwin famous for?
He is famous for the theory of evolution by natural selection and for *On the Origin of Species*.
When was Charles Darwin born?
He was born on 12 February 1809 in Shrewsbury, England.
When did Charles Darwin die?
He died on 19 April 1882 in Downe, Kent, England.
What was HMS Beagle?
HMS *Beagle* was the ship on which Darwin served as a naturalist during a five-year scientific voyage from 1831 to 1836.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Charles-Darwin
    Supports: Biographical details, nationality, dates of birth and death, and Darwin’s theory of natural selection.
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/summary/Charles-Darwin
    Supports: Summary of Darwin’s education, HMS Beagle voyage, and impact of his discoveries.
  3. EBSCO Research Starters — https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/history/charles-darwin
    Supports: Education, Beagle voyage, Galápagos observations, and publication of *On the Origin of Species*.
  4. Darwin Online — https://darwin-online.org.uk/biography.html
    Supports: Overview of Darwin’s influence on natural history and evolutionary biology.