Charles Darwin's On the Origin of Species, published on 24 November 1859, is a work of scientific literature which is considered to be the foundation of evolutionary biology. Its full title was 'On the Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection, or the Preservation of Favoured Races in the Struggle for Life.' For the sixth edition of 1872, the short title was changed to 'The Origin of Species.' Darwin's book introduced the scientific theory that populations evolve over the course of generations through a process of natural selection. It presented a body of evidence that the diversity of life arose by common descent through a branching pattern of evolution. Darwin included evidence that he had gathered on the Beagle expedition in the 1830s and his subsequent findings from research, correspondence, and experimentation. The Origin of Species shook the foundations of traditional religion to its core. One of the few revolutionary works of science that is engrossingly readable, The Origin of Species not only launched the science of modern biology but also has influenced virtually all subsequent literary, philosophical, and religious thinking. This Special Collector's Edition includes an Introduction by Charles Darwin. REVIEWS: "An absolutely astounding glimpse into life as we know it." - Publisher's Weekly "A groundbreaking work of genius." - Science Monthly "Highly recommended for all collections." - Library Journal