Who was Charles Darwin and why does he remain a controversial figure? - Fact File task - worksheet

Charles Darwin was a renowned British naturalist, born on February 12, 1809, and passed away on April 19, 1882. He is most famous for his groundbreaking work on the theory of evolution through natural selection, which he detailed in his 1859 book "On the Origin of Species". This theory proposed that species evolve over time due to the process of natural selection, where organisms with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing these traits onto future generations. Darwin's work laid the foundation for modern evolutionary biology and changed the way we understand the natural world.

Darwin spent most of his life in England, living in places such as Shrewsbury, Cambridge, and most notably, Down House in Kent, where he conducted much of his research. Despite his significant contributions to science, Darwin remains a controversial figure for some due to the implications of his theories on the origins and development of life. These ideas challenged traditional views, particularly the literal interpretation of creation as described in religious texts. As a result, his work sparked debates between scientific and religious communities, debates that continue in some circles to this day. Darwin's influence extends beyond biology, impacting philosophy, psychology, and other fields, as his theories have prompted humanity to reconsider its place within the natural world.