Early Life and Education

Alfred Russel Wallace, born on January 8, 1823, in the English town of Usk, was a remarkable figure in the world of science. His early life was marked by a curiosity that would shape his future. Raised in a middle-class family, Wallace’s interests were piqued by the natural world around him. He attended the local grammar school, where he developed a passion for natural history and science.

Early Career and Exploration

After completing his education, Wallace embarked on a series of jobs, including surveying and mapping. However, his true calling was in the field of natural science. In 1848, he set off for the Amazon basin, where he spent five years conducting botanical and zoological research. This experience was pivotal in shaping his understanding of the natural world.

The Theory of Natural Selection

Wallace’s most significant contribution to science was his independent discovery of the theory of natural selection. In 1858, he sent a paper outlining his ideas to Charles Darwin, who was also working on a similar theory. This led to the joint publication of their findings, which would revolutionize the field of biology. Wallace’s theory proposed that species evolve over time through a process of natural selection, where the fittest individuals survive and reproduce.

The Wallace Line

During his extensive fieldwork in the Malay Archipelago, Wallace identified a distinct boundary that separated the animal species of the region. This boundary, known as the Wallace Line, runs between Bali and Lombok, dividing the islands into two distinct regions: the western islands, which are more closely related to Asian species, and the eastern islands, which are more similar to Australian species. This discovery was crucial in the development of biogeography, the study of the distribution of species across the globe.

Later Life and Legacy

After his return to England, Wallace continued to work on various scientific projects, including studies on human evolution and the distribution of species. He also became involved in social and political issues, advocating for social reform and the rights of indigenous peoples. Wallace passed away on November 7, 1913, but his legacy continues to influence the fields of biology, ecology, and conservation.

Alfred Russel Wallace: A Timeline