Caricature showing Darwin as a monkey hanging from tree of Science. Charles Robert Darwin (February 12, 1809 - April 19, 1882) was an English naturalist, geologist and biologist. Studies at the University of Cambridge encouraged his passion for natural science. Puzzled by the geographical distribution of wildlife and fossils he collected on the five-year voyage on HMS Beagle, Darwin began detailed investigations and in 1838 conceived his theory of natural selection. Although he discussed his ideas with several naturalists, he needed time for extensive research and his geological work had priority. He was writing up his theory in 1858 when Alfred Russel Wallace sent him an essay that described the same idea, prompting immediate joint publication of both of their theories. Darwin's work established evolutionary descent with modification as the dominant scientific explanation of diversification in nature. In 1871 he examined human evolution and sexual selection in The Descent of Man, and Selection in Relation to Sex, followed by The Expression of the Emotions in Man and Animals (1872). Darwin has been described as one of the most influential figures in human history. He died in 1882, at the age of 73, and he was honored by burial in Westminster Abbey. Relief metal cut with pochoir, 1871. Parisian newspaper, response to the 1871 publication of The Descent of Man.