Charles Darwin: His Life Told in an Autobiographical Chapter, and in a Selected Series of His Published Letters

"Charles Darwin: His Life Told in an Autobiographical Chapter, and in a Selected Series of His Published Letters" edited by Francis Darwin is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work provides an intimate glimpse into the life and thoughts of Charles Darwin, the eminent naturalist best known for his theory of evolution. The book not only chronicles his scientific journey but also sheds light on his personal experiences and familial relationships, offering a holistic view of the man behind the theory. The opening of this work introduces readers to Darwin's early life and family background, particularly highlighting his father, Dr. Robert Waring Darwin, and his mother, Susannah, whose influence shaped his character. The narrative delves into Darwin's formative years, detailing his interests in natural history, his education, and the early experiences that sparked his scientific curiosity. It establishes a foundation for understanding the personal and academic challenges he faced as he navigated various educational institutions, ultimately setting the stage for his groundbreaking contributions to biology and natural science. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Charles Robert Darwin was an English naturalist, geologist, and biologist, widely known for his contributions to evolutionary biology. His proposition that all species of life have descended from a common ancestor is now generally accepted and considered a fundamental scientific concept. In a joint publication with Alfred Russel Wallace, he introduced his scientific theory that this branching pattern of evolution resulted from a process he called natural selection, in which the struggle for existence has a similar effect to the artificial selection involved in selective breeding. Darwin has been described as one of the most influential figures in human history and was honoured by burial in Westminster Abbey.