Who was Charles Darwin and what were some of his contributions to the field of evolutionary biology?

Charles Darwin (1809-1882) was a British naturalist and biologist who is best known for his contributions to the field of evolutionary biology. Darwin's ideas and work have had a profound impact on our understanding of the natural world and the origins of species.

One of Darwin's most significant contributions was his theory of natural selection, which he published in his book 'On the Origin of Species' in 1859. This theory proposed that species evolve over time through a process of natural selection, whereby individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on their beneficial traits to their offspring.

Another key contribution of Darwin was his recognition of the role of genetic variation in evolution. He observed that individuals within a species exhibit variations in traits, and that these variations can be inherited by their offspring. This concept provided the basis for the modern understanding of genetics and its role in evolutionary processes.

Darwin's work challenged many established beliefs about the origins and diversity of life on Earth, and has had a lasting impact on the fields of biology, anthropology, and philosophy.