Charles Robert Darwin FRS FRGS FLS FZS JP[5] (/ˈdɑːrwɪn/[6] DAR-win; 12 February 1809 – 19 April 1882) was an English naturalist, geologist, and biologist,[7] 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.[8] In a joint publication with Alfred Russel Wallace, he introduced his scientific theory that this branching pattern of evolution resulted from a process he called natural selection, in which the struggle for existence has a similar effect to the artificial selection involved in selective breeding.[9] Darwin has been described as one of the most influential figures in human history and was honoured by burial in Westminster Abbey.[10][11]