August 29, 1831: The Charles Darwin story 185 years ago, on a day similar to this one, Charles Darwin received a letter that would profoundly alter his life and serve as the catalyst for a sequence of events leading to the eventual formulation of his theory of evolution by natural selection. Darwin was formally asked by Rev. John Henslow and George Peacock in their letter to board the HMS Beagle and set out on a two-year voyage, which was initially scheduled to last five years, starting on September 25. To learn more about this fascinating tale about Charles Darwin story, continue reading.

Charles Darwin Story
Darwin’s Galapagos visit inspired his theory of evolution.

Charles Darwin Story: The Journey to the Galapagos Islands

Darwin’s sisters and father were against the trip to the Galapagos Islands, mainly because they believed it would be another waste of his time. However, his father, Robert Darwin, promised him he would be allowed to leave provided he could find someone sensible enough to believe the expedition was worthwhile. As careful as ever, Charles Darwin located the individual: Josiah Wedgwood II, his uncle (coincidentally was also his father-in-law, having married Emma Wedgwood, his cousin!).

Josiah Wedgwood II sent a letter to Dr. Robert Darwin two days later, outlining his justifications for the expedition—the official acceptance of Charles Darwin aboard the HMS Beagle.
This was a pivotal point in the development of the evolution theory since it was during this journey that Darwin was able to personally witness phenomena that most people had no idea existed. Look at the graphics to meet the characters in this engrossing tale. Continue reading to discover the fascinating history of the Galapagos Islands.