* On the Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection, or the Preservation of Favoured Races in the Struggle for Life (1859): This groundbreaking work laid out Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection, which revolutionized our understanding of the natural world.
* The Descent of Man, and Selection in Relation to Sex (1871): In this book, Darwin applied his theory of evolution to humans, arguing that we shared a common ancestor with other primates and that sexual selection played a significant role in human evolution.
* The Expression of the Emotions in Man and Animals (1872): Darwin explored the similarities in emotional expression across different species, proposing that these expressions evolved as adaptive behaviors.
* The Voyage of the Beagle (1839): While not strictly a work on evolution, this account of Darwin's travels on the HMS Beagle provided the foundation for his later theories. He observed and collected specimens from diverse ecosystems, which sparked his curiosity about the diversity of life and how it changed over time.
* The Formation of Vegetable Mould Through the Action of Worms (1881): This book, though less famous than his others, demonstrated Darwin's fascination with the natural world. He studied the impact of earthworms on soil formation, showcasing his meticulous observation and experimentation.
Besides these major works, Darwin also published numerous scientific papers and shorter books on topics like orchids, barnacles, and the fertilization of plants. He continued to refine his ideas about evolution and natural selection throughout his career.