Charles Darwin was an English naturalist who is best known for his groundbreaking work on the theory of evolution by natural selection. He was born on February 12, 1809, in Shrewsbury, England, and died on April 19, 1882. Darwin's ideas revolutionized our understanding of the natural world and the origins of species. Here is a summary of his life and work: Early Life and Education: Darwin came from a wealthy and well-educated family. He attended the University of Edinburgh and later studied at the University of Cambridge, where he developed an interest in natural history. Voyage on the HMS Beagle: In 1831, Darwin embarked on a five-year voyage as the ship's naturalist on the HMS Beagle. During this expedition, he collected extensive data on geology, biology, and paleontology. His observations during this journey had a profound impact on the development of his theory of evolution. Theory of Evolution by Natural Selection: In 1859, Darwin published his seminal work, "On the Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection." In this book, he proposed the theory of evolution by natural selection. This theory posits that species evolve over time through a process in which individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on these traits to the next generation. Evidence for Evolution: Darwin provided substantial evidence for his theory, including examples of artificial selection in domesticated animals and observations of natural variation in the wild. He also discussed the fossil record, biogeography, and comparative anatomy to support his ideas. Controversy and Impact: Darwin's theory was met with both acclaim and opposition. It challenged religious and scientific orthodoxy of the time, as it contradicted the widely held belief in the fixity of species. However, over time, his ideas gained widespread acceptance and had a profound impact on biology and our understanding of life on Earth. Later Life and Legacy: After the publication of "On the Origin of Species," Darwin continued to study and write on various topics, including sexual selection, human evolution, and the expression of emotions. He also corresponded with other scientists and continued to refine his theories. He passed away in 1882. Charles Darwin's work laid the foundation for modern evolutionary biology, and his ideas have had a lasting impact on the fields of biology, paleontology, and the study of life's diversity. His theory of evolution by natural selection remains one of the most important and influential ideas in the history of science.