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Darwin publishes his theory of evolution and natural selection in the book On the Origin of Species.

1859

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Darwin argues that species evolve through natural selection, which is the process by which individuals with traits that are adapted to survival in their environment are more likely to survive and pass those traits onto their offspring.

While Darwin himself will not weigh in on the application of his theory to human societies until years later, others will immediately begin developing ideas of "social Darwinism," which will be used to form the foundation of the eugenics movement.