Charles Darwin
Biography
Charles Darwin (1809–1882) was an English naturalist and biologist whose theory of evolution by natural selection fundamentally transformed our understanding of life on Earth. Born in Shrewsbury, he studied at Edinburgh and Cambridge before joining HMS Beagle on a five-year voyage (1831–1836) that provided the observations underlying his revolutionary theory. On the Origin of Species (1859) presented evidence that species evolve through natural selection, challenging prevailing views of creation. Despite initial controversy, his ideas became the foundation of modern biology. Darwin also wrote extensively on sexual selection, human evolution, plant biology, and earthworms. He is buried in Westminster Abbey.
Common themes in Charles Darwin's work
Evolution
A recurring theme throughout Charles Darwin's writing.
Natural selection
A recurring theme throughout Charles Darwin's writing.
Natural history
A recurring theme throughout Charles Darwin's writing.
Scientific revolution
A recurring theme throughout Charles Darwin's writing.
Books
Explore by genre
Other authors you may enjoy
Why Charles Darwin is still read today
Darwin’s theory of evolution remains the central organizing principle of biology. His works are essential reading for understanding not only science but the intellectual history of the modern world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Charles Darwin?
Charles Darwin (1809–1882) was an English naturalist who developed the theory of evolution by natural selection, transforming biology and our understanding of life.
What are his major works?
On the Origin of Species and The Voyage of the Beagle are his most famous. Both are available free on TextStack.
What is natural selection?
Darwin’s mechanism of evolution: organisms with traits better suited to their environment survive and reproduce more, passing those traits to offspring.
Where can I read Darwin free?
TextStack offers Darwin’s major works to read free online.
Essential cookies keep you signed in and save your reading progress. Analytics cookies help us understand how the site is used. You can reject analytics — we still work without them. Learn more in our Privacy Policy.