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2024-09-22 08:21:10

Charles Darwin

English naturalist known for evolutionary biology contributions
English naturalist known for evolutionary biology contributions

Charles Robert Darwin was an influential English naturalist, geologist, and biologist, recognized for his theory of evolution through natural selection. His work in evolutionary biology revolutionized the scientific community, establishing natural selection as the primary mechanism of evolution.

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1809-02-12
Birth of Charles Darwin

Charles Darwin, born on February 12, 1809, revolutionized the field of biology with his theory of evolution through natural selection.

1817
Death of Charles Darwin's Mother

In 1817, Charles Darwin's mother passed away, leading his three older sisters to take on maternal responsibilities.

1825-06-17
Matriculates at the University of Edinburgh

On June 17, 1825, Charles Darwin was taken away early from Shrewsbury School by his father. He then matriculates at the University of Edinburgh with his brother Erasmus, registering for medical courses.

1826-11-10
Elected to Plinian Society

On November 10, 1826, Charles Darwin is elected to the Plinian Society after meeting Dr. Robert Grant, a naturalist and Lamarckian, and examining marine animals.

1827-03-27
Darwin presents his discovery at the Plinian Society

On 27 March 1827, Charles Darwin presented his own discovery at the Plinian Society, revealing that black spores found in oyster shells were the eggs of a skate leech. This event marked an important moment in Darwin's early scientific career.

1827-10-15
Admission to Christ's College, University of Cambridge

On 15th October 1827, Charles Darwin was admitted to Christ's College, University of Cambridge, although he did not move there until January 1828.

1828-01
Darwin moves to Christ's College, Cambridge

In January 1828, Charles Darwin's father sent him to Christ's College, Cambridge, to study for a Bachelor of Arts degree after being dissatisfied with his neglect of medical studies. Darwin was required to join the ordinary degree course as he was unqualified for the Tripos exams.

1829
Travels to Wales to collect insects with Frederick William Hope

In 1829, Charles Darwin traveled to Wales to collect insects with entomologist Frederick William Hope.

1831-01-22
Passing BA examinations without honours

On 22nd January 1831, Charles Darwin passed his BA examinations without honours at the University of Cambridge.

1831-12
Voyages of HMS Beagle

HMS Beagle, the ship that Charles Darwin sailed on, embarked on a voyage in 1831 that would later lead to Darwin's development of the theory of evolution. The ship's voyages played a crucial role in Darwin's research and observations.

1831-12-27
Darwin Embarks on HMS Beagle Voyage

After being proposed by Henslow and funded by his family, Charles Darwin embarked on the HMS Beagle expedition to chart the coastline of South America. The voyage lasted almost five years, during which Darwin made significant geological and natural history observations.

1832-01-16
Darwin's First Landing on a Tropical Shore at St Jago, Cape Verde Islands

In January 1832, Charles Darwin makes his first landing on a tropical shore at St Jago, Cape Verde Islands. This marks the beginning of his field notebooks being used during his exploration.

1833
Darwin's Visit to Argentina and Tierra del Fuego

During 1833, the Beagle visited Argentina, and Charles Darwin spent time exploring Buenos Aires. The ship also revisited Tierra del Fuego, where the previously released natives had returned to their local customs.

1834-06-09
Darwin's Illness in the Andes

While exploring the Andes near Santiago, Darwin fell ill, possibly due to an insect bite. This illness, speculated to be a tropical disease, may have had long-lasting effects on his health.

1835-09-07
Darwin's Observations in Galapagos Islands

During his visit to the Galapagos Islands, Darwin made significant observations and collected specimens that later contributed to his theory of evolution by natural selection.

1835-09-15
Darwin in Galapagos

Charles Darwin explores the Galapagos Islands from September 15 to 23, 1835, a pivotal moment in the development of his evolutionary ideas.

1836-10-02
Darwin's Return to England

On October 2, 1836, Darwin's ship anchored at Falmouth, Cornwall, marking the end of his voyage on the Beagle. He then traveled to Shrewsbury and Cambridge, where he sought advice from Henslow and began organizing his scientific collections.

1836-10-29
Darwin's Meeting with Charles Lyell and Richard Owen

In October 1836, Darwin met Charles Lyell and Richard Owen in London. Lyell introduced him to Owen, who worked on Darwin's fossil collections. Owen's findings on extinct species further influenced Darwin's evolutionary theories.

1837-01-04
Darwin reads first scientific paper

In January 4, 1837, Charles Darwin presents his initial scientific paper titled 'Observations...on the coast of Chile' at the Geological Society in London.

1837-02-17
Darwin elected to the Council of the Geological Society

Darwin was elected to the Council of the Geological Society, and Lyell's presidential address highlighted Owen's findings on Darwin's fossils.

1837-03-14
Darwin announces the distribution changes of rheas

On 14 March, Darwin announced how the distribution of rheas changed going southwards.

1837-11-01
Darwin presents theory on earthworms' role in soil formation

After experiencing health issues, Darwin visited his relatives at Maer Hall, Staffordshire. His uncle's observation of earthworm activity inspired Darwin to develop a new and important theory on their role in soil formation. He presented this theory at the Geological Society on 1 November 1837.

1838-09-28
Darwin reads Malthus's An Essay on the Principle of Population

Darwin read the sixth edition of Malthus's An Essay on the Principle of Population in London. He noted Malthus's assertion about human population growth and its impact on food supply, leading to the concept of a Malthusian catastrophe.

1839-01-24
Darwin elected a Fellow of the Royal Society

On January 24, 1839, Darwin was elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS). This recognition highlighted his contributions to science and research.

1839-01-29
Charles Darwin marries Emma Wedgwood

On January 29, 1839, Charles Darwin marries his first cousin Emma Wedgwood, with whom he has ten children.

1839-12-27
Birth of William Erasmus Darwin

Charles Darwin and Emma Wedgwood welcome their first child, William Erasmus Darwin, on December 27, 1839.

1840
Darwin elected to the Council of the Royal Geographical Society

In 1840, Charles Darwin was elected to the Council of the Royal Geographical Society, showcasing his contributions to the field of geography.

1841
Planning to write a book on 'Varieties & Species' and publishing geological articles

In 1841, Charles Darwin communicated his intention to write a book on 'Varieties & Species' to his cousin Fox. He also published geological articles like On the distribution of erratic boulders.

1842-05
Publication of The Structure and Distribution of Coral Reefs

Darwin's book on atoll formation was published in May 1842 after more than three years of work. This work also included his first 'pencil sketch' of his theory of natural selection.

1843-04
Publication of Volcanic Islands

Between 1843 and 1844, Charles Darwin works on and publishes 'Volcanic Islands', a significant geological study that contributes to his growing reputation as a naturalist.

1844-01-11
Darwin shares his theory with Joseph Dalton Hooker

On 11 January 1844, Darwin mentioned his theorising to botanist Joseph Dalton Hooker, comparing it to 'confessing a murder'. Hooker expressed interest in Darwin's ideas and questioned existing opinions on species change.

1845
Relationship with John Murray Publishing House

In 1845, Charles Darwin begins a lifelong relationship with the London publishing house of John Murray, which plays a significant role in the dissemination of his scientific work.

1846
Darwin finishes Geological Observations on South America

In 1846, Charles Darwin completed his last book which detailed his observations on the geology of South America during his voyage on the HMS Beagle.

1847
Hooker provides feedback on Darwin's 'Essay'

In 1847, Joseph Dalton Hooker read Darwin's 'Essay' and provided critical feedback. This feedback was valuable to Darwin in refining his ideas on species change.

1848
Death of Father Robert Waring Darwin

In November 1848, Charles Darwin's father, Robert Waring Darwin, passes away, leading to a period of mourning and reflection for the naturalist.

1849
Residence in Malvern Wells

From March to June 1849, Charles Darwin and his family reside in Malvern Wells for his health, undergoing the water cure treatment.

1850
Continuation of Barnacles Study

In 1850, Charles Darwin continues his meticulous study on barnacles, furthering his understanding of these crustaceans.

1851-03-23
Death of Daughter Annie

In March 1851, Charles Darwin tragically loses his oldest daughter, Annie, to fever during a visit to Malvern, marking a profound personal loss for the Darwin family.

1852-03-24
Visit to Rugby and Shrewsbury

Darwin visited Rugby and Shrewsbury on 24th March and returned home on 1st April after spending a day in Rugby.

1852-09-11
Visit to Leith Hill Place

Darwin visited Leith Hill Place to visit Josiah Wedgwoods on 11th September and returned home on 16th.

1853
Darwin awarded Royal Medal by The Royal Society

In 1853, The Royal Society awarded Charles Darwin their Royal Medal in recognition of his groundbreaking work on barnacles.

1854
Darwin elected to Royal Society's Philosophical Club and Linnean Society

In 1854, Charles Darwin was elected to the Royal Society's Philosophical Club and the Linnean Society, acknowledging his significant contributions to science.

1855-03
Comparing Seeds and Reading

In March and April of 1855, Darwin was mainly occupied with comparing seeds, conducting experiments in salting seeds, and reading.

1856-05-14
Darwin begins writing a paper on natural selection

On 14 May 1856, Darwin started writing a paper on natural selection. This marked the beginning of his efforts to publish his ideas on species change.

1857-09-05
Darwin sends outline of ideas to Asa Gray

In September 1857, Charles Darwin sent a detailed outline of his ideas, including an abstract of Natural Selection, to the American botanist Asa Gray. The outline omitted human origins and sexual selection.

1858-06-18
Darwin receives Wallace's paper on natural selection

On 18 June 1858, Charles Darwin received a paper from Alfred Russel Wallace describing natural selection. Darwin was shocked to have been 'forestalled' and sent it to Lyell as requested by Wallace.

1858-07-01
Joint presentation of work by Darwin and Wallace to the Linnaean Society of London

Darwin and Wallace's work on natural selection was presented to the Linnaean Society of London in a joint presentation. Selections from Darwin's Essay of 1844 and a letter from 1857, along with Wallace's 1858 essay, were read to the audience.

1859
Darwin's Theory of Evolution

Charles Darwin's theory of evolution was influenced by the concept of pre-established harmony between nature and human ideas, as proposed by David Hume. This theory revolutionized the understanding of the origin and development of species through natural selection.

1859-08-28
Publication of On the Origin of Species

Charles Darwin's groundbreaking book, On the Origin of Species, is published. Its impact extends beyond the realm of science, influencing business and society on a larger scale.

1859-11-22
On the Origin of Species published

On 22 November 1859, Charles Darwin's book 'On the Origin of Species' was published. The entire stock of 1,250 copies was oversubscribed when it went on sale to booksellers.

1859-11-24
Publication of 'On the Origin of Species'

On November 24, 1859, Charles Darwin publishes 'On the Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection', a groundbreaking work on evolution.

1860
British Association meeting 1860

Darwin presented his theory of evolution at the British Association meeting in 1860.

1861
Work on Variation book and 3rd edition of Origin published

In 1861, Charles Darwin continued working on his Variation book and published the 3rd edition of his famous work 'Origin of Species'. He also began working on a book about orchids.

1862
Begins to grow a beard and publishes work on Orchids

In 1862, Charles Darwin started growing a beard due to ill health and published 'On the Various Contrivances by which British and foreign Orchids are fertilised by Insects'. He also met Alfred Russel Wallace after his return from Indonesia.

1863
Dealing with serious illness

In 1863, Charles Darwin consulted many medical professionals due to his serious illness, which continued until the spring of 1866.

1864-11-03
Darwin awarded Royal Society's Copley Medal

Darwin received Britain's highest scientific honor, the Copley Medal, for his contributions to science.

1865
Introduction of Francis Galton's argument on heredity and eugenics

In 1865, Darwin was intrigued by his half-cousin Francis Galton's argument that human traits could be inherited through statistical analysis of heredity, leading to the field of study known as eugenics.

1866
Darwin awarded Copley Medal of the Royal Society

In 1866, Charles Darwin was awarded the prestigious Copley Medal by the Royal Society, after being nominated for three consecutive years. The omission of his work 'Origin of Species' from the award sparked debates.

1867
Completes Variation manuscript

In 1867, Charles Darwin finished the manuscript for his book 'Variation'. He also distributed several queries about expression.

1868-07
Visits Isle of Wight and publishes The Variation of Animals and Plants Under Domestication

In July 1868, Charles Darwin visited the Isle of Wight, met Alfred Lord Tennyson and Julia Margaret Cameron, and was photographed by Cameron. He also published 'The Variation of Animals and Plants Under Domestication'.

1869
Publishes 5th edition of Origin

In 1869, Charles Darwin released the 5th edition of 'Origin of Species' and continued working on the descent of man.

1870
Works on descent of man

Throughout 1870, Charles Darwin dedicated the whole year to working on the descent of man, with various visits to relatives.

1871-02-03
Publication of 'The Descent of Man'

In February and March 1871, Charles Darwin publishes 'The Descent of Man and Selection in Relation to Sex', focusing on human evolution.

1872-11
Publication of 'The Expression of the Emotions'

In November 1872, Charles Darwin publishes 'The Expression of the Emotions in Man and Animals', exploring facial expressions and emotions.

1873
Attends a soiree at George Eliot's house

In 1873, Charles Darwin attended a social gathering at the residence of the renowned author George Eliot. During this time, he was also engaged in studying climbing plants and preparing the second edition of his book 'Descent of Man'.

1874-01
A séance held at his brother's house

In January 1874, a spiritualistic session known as a séance took place at Charles Darwin's brother's house. Despite the event, Darwin chose not to participate, expressing skepticism towards such practices. Additionally, the second editions of his works 'Descent of Man' and 'Coral Reefs' were published during this time.

1875-07
Publication of 'Insectivorous Plants'

In July 1875, Charles Darwin publishes 'Insectivorous Plants', delving into the fascinating world of plants that digest food like animals.

1876
Begins writing an autobiographical memoir and publishes The Effects of Cross and Self Fertilisation

In 1876, Charles Darwin initiated the writing of an autobiographical memoir for his descendants. He also published 'The Effects of Cross and Self Fertilisation in the Vegetable Kingdom'. During this time, his first grandchild was born to his son Francis, who later moved in with Darwin after his wife's tragic death.

1877
Honorary Doctorate of Law from Cambridge

Cambridge University confers an honorary doctorate of law upon Darwin in recognition of his contributions to science and evolutionary theory.

1878
Works on the circumnutating Movements of plants

During 1878, Charles Darwin dedicated his time to studying the circumnutating movements of plants. This research focused on the intricate behaviors and growth patterns exhibited by various plant species.

1879-08
Meeting John Ruskin in Coniston

In August 1879, Charles Darwin takes a family holiday in Coniston in the Lake District where he meets John Ruskin. During this time, he also publishes a biographical study of his grandfather, Erasmus Darwin, which leads to bitter attacks by Samuel Butler accusing Darwin of plagiarism.

1880
Publishing The Power of Movement in Plants

In 1880, Charles Darwin publishes 'The Power of Movement in Plants' with the assistance of his son, Francis Darwin.

1881-05-01
Publication of 'The Formation of Vegetable Mould through the Actions of Worms'

On May 1, 1881, Charles Darwin's final book 'The Formation of Vegetable Mould through the Actions of Worms' is published, focusing on the role of worms in soil formation.

1882-04-19
Death of Charles Darwin

On April 19, 1882, Charles Darwin passed away in Downe, Kent, England. He was laid to rest at Westminster Abbey, marking the end of a significant era in evolutionary biology.

1882-04-26
Burial of Charles Darwin in Westminster Abbey

Despite his expectation to be buried in St Mary's churchyard at Downe, Charles Darwin was honored with burial in Westminster Abbey, close to John Herschel and Isaac Newton. The funeral, held on April 26, was attended by numerous people from various fields.

1883
Francis Galton names the field of study 'eugenics'

After Darwin's death in 1883, Francis Galton named the field of study 'eugenics' based on the theories of heredity and inheritance, which were later used to promote eugenic policies.

1915
Lady Hope Story

A story published in 1915 claimed that Darwin had converted to Christianity on his deathbed. However, this claim was refuted by Darwin's children and dismissed by historians as false.

1964
Darwin College founded at Cambridge University

Darwin College, a postgraduate college at Cambridge University, was established in 1964 and is named after the Darwin family.

2009
Darwin200

Commemorating the 200th anniversary of Charles Darwin's birth.

2022
Darwin Correspondence Project

The Darwin Correspondence Project is a scholarly endeavor that aims to collect, research, and publish all known letters written by or to Charles Darwin. It provides valuable insights into Darwin's life, work, and relationships.

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Charles Darwin
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