I have posted elsewhere about the many scientists who have contributed to the theory of evolution. The problem that we encounter here is the nuance that we place on the word "theory." Common parlance of theory is that it is "opinion." In science "theory" is much more. It is a systematic statement of principles involved such as the equations in mathematics, or the theory of gravity, or the the theory of relativity, etc. Beware of the Bible-thumpers who rant on television that evolution is "only a theory." In their ignorance, they are saying "it is a fact." But I digress. The work on animal progression has gone on through the centuries. The Law of Faunal Succession was established by earlier paleontologists. Some of them were Robert Hooke (1635-1703), William Smith (1769-1839), G. L. LeClerc, Compte de Buffon (1707-1788), Erasmus Darwin (grandfather of Charles) 1731-1892, and finally J. P. A. de Lamarck (1744-1829). These scientists had studied the sedimentary rocks and determined that animal-fossil fauna change steadily upward through the sequence of the ages. At younger levels, the fossils more nearly resembled modern animals. Evolutionary change was the only rational explanation. The early explanations did not hold up well and Chalres Darwin's work, and Alfred R. Wallace's work, partially solved the riddle by identifying the general process. He was unable to explain the mechanics, and those mechanisms, gene mutation, isolation, symbiosis, etc. were not identified until the 20th Century. The work continues. Wallace truly belongs in the pantheon of scientists who are unlocking the secrets of the past and the origin of man. Unfortunately he did not get the fame of Darwin; on the other hand, he avoided the opprobrium.

A great naturalist and thinker,Wallace published his theory of evolution by natural selection,arrived at independently,ahead of his contemporary Darwin.He has every right to be considered the true originator of the hugely important,ground-breaking, and influential theory.His publication precipitated Darwin's famous "On the Origin of Species..".Yet his name now languishes in almost total anonymity:he was handicapped by lacking Darwin's Social background and connections.He lived an extremely interesting life,voyaging to South America(where many of his writings were destroyed in a ship fire) and the far East,proposed the evolutionary distinction between the fauna of Australia and Asia,giving his name to the "Wallace line",and was concerned with issues of social justice.He certainly deserves to be rescued from obscurity and given fuller credit for his achievements!