Charles Darwin Day 2024: History & Significance

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Every year, Charles Darwin Day is observed on February 12 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Charles Darwin. The day also helps people acknowledge his most prominent contributions to the field of science and humanity. Moreover, the day urges people across the globe to be inspired by his principles of curiosity, bravery, and scientific thinking. Every February 12, scientists and science enthusiasts come together to pay their respects to one of the most revered people on this planet. 

Name of the eventCharles Darwin Day
Observed on12 February 
Reason To celebrate the birth anniversary of Charles Darwin

Also Read: Greatest Scientist Of All Times

History of Charles Darwin Day

  • The history of Charles Darwin Day celebrations began with three Darwin enthusiasts including Dr. Robert Stephens, Prof. Massimo Pigliucci, and Amanda Chesworth. 
  • They made numerous efforts to officially commence the Darwin Day Program in 2000 in New Mexico.  
  • A few years later, the Darwin Day celebration was finally incorporated in California as the Darwin Day Celebration. 
  • It was incorporated under 501 (c) (3) a non-profit educational corporation. 
  • In the US, it was made an official holiday due to House Resolution 67 which designated 12 February as Darwin Day in the year 2015.
  • When Darwin published the book The Origin of Species, numerous scholars and scientists around the world paid their tribute.
  • In 1959, the University of Chicago also celebrated the 100th anniversary of the publication of the Origin of Species with numerous events and celebrations held between 24 November to 28 November. 

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How is Charles Darwin Day Celebrated?

On every Charles Darwin Day, numerous events are organized across the globe to raise awareness about the person as well as his crucial role in the field of science. These festivities vary from country to country and may include things like:

  • Many universities and museums host lectures and seminars on topics related to Darwin’s work. 
  • People also buy his books and read them to understand his ideologies and thoughts on certain topics.
  • In some cases, people also collectively organize morning walks in parks to educate everyone about our prosperous earth and its treasures.
  • People also indulge in art exhibitions, quiz contests, and debates related to Charles Darwin. 

Also Read: World Science Day for Peace and Development 2023 

Significance of Charles Darwin Day

The significance of this day includes:

  • The day highlights the importance of Darwin’s concepts in the field of biology and evolution.
  • It also reminds us of the profound impact of Charles Darwin’s concept of natural selection which states how specifies evolve over time based on specific advantageous traits.
  • It provides a glorious opportunity for schools and universities around the world to engage students in science-related activities. 

Also Read: National Science Day 

Charles Darwin Death

The demise of Charles Darwin has always been a topic of debate and discussion among historians. The man behind the survival of the fittest was not exactly a healthy person in reality. Charles Darwin suffered from a plethora of medical conditions ranging from chronic vomiting to gastrointestinal trouble, abdominal pain, and weakness.

Later in life, Charles Darwin developed vertigo, eczema, boils, joint pain, and numerous other conditions. Around the age of 73, he succumbed to heart failure. 

The very essence of instinct is that it is followed independently of reason.

A man who dares to waste one hour of time has not discovered the value of life.

If the misery of the poor be caused not by the laws of nature, but by our institutions, great is our sin.

Animals, whom we have made our slaves, we do not like to consider our equal.

Man tends to increase at a greater rate than his means of subsistence. 

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FAQs

Is there a Charles Darwin Day?

Yes, every year on 12 February, the US along with the entire world celebrates Charles Darwin Day. This official holiday commemorates the birth date of Charles Darwin, one of the most influential scientists of all time. Also, the day spreads awareness about his key contributions in the field of evolution.

Why is Evolution Day celebrated?

Evolution Day is celebrated to honor and pay respect to the anniversary of the initial publication of On the Origin of Species by Charles Darwin on 24 November 1859

Did Charles Darwin go to India?

No, despite the vast biological diversity of India and its treasures, Charles Darwin did not visit the country. 

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