In the 1830s, the British naturalist Charles Darwin set out on a voyage on the Beagle. During this expedition, the young scientist collected samples that contributed to the development of his famous theories about evolution. Among them were plants that are now, after almost two centuries, ready to be presented to the public.
University of Cambridge
Darwin, who studied theology at Cambridge, showed an incredible interest in natural science, in particular botany. Thanks to the recommendation of his teacher and friend, Professor John Stevens Henslow, he got the opportunity to take part in the expedition on the ship "Beagle". Before that, Darwin took a botany course three times at Henslow, who was already actively forming the collection of the Cambridge Botanical Museum.
Throughout the journey, Darwin collected various plant specimens, studied and documented them. His vigilance and passion for learning were key to preserving these rare specimens for the scientific community.
University of Cambridge
After the completion of the expedition, Henslow managed to form an excellent collection of plants in Cambridge. The specimens sent by Darwin helped to supplement and expand the museum's collections. They became an important source of knowledge for scientists of that time.
For example, a lichen specimen labeled as having been collected by Charles Darwin in 1833 was lying loose on a piece of paper to which it was pressed. A sample of the fungus found by a researcher in Brazil was discovered in an archive wrapped in the original newspaper.
University of Cambridge
Two samples of seaweed collected by Darwin on the shores of Tierra del Fuego in 1833. They respond to letters, which stated that the scientist will never forget the "scream" of the native inhabitants of the South American archipelago when they saw him go to the beach.
Today, almost 200 years after the voyage of the Beagle, these rare plant specimens are ready to be presented to the public. A British channel documentary exploring the relationship between Darwin and Henslowe will be an important step in uncovering the history of these outstanding scientists and their contribution to the development of science.
Source: theguardian.com
