Charles Robert Darwin was an English naturalist, geologist, and biologist widely known for his contributions to evolutionary biology. His proposition that all species of life have descended from a common ancestor is now generally accepted and considered a fundamental scientific concept. Darwin introduced his scientific theory of evolution through a process he called natural selection, which he presented jointly with Alfred Russel Wallace. According to his theory, the branching pattern of evolution resulted from the struggle for existence, a process with effects similar to the artificial selection involved in selective breeding. Darwin has been described as one of the most influential figures in human history. He was honoured by burial in Westminster Abbey, reflecting the significance of his contributions to science and human understanding.