Darwin's Workforce

Darwin is often represented as a solitary scientist but his correspondence reveals that he was, in fact, one of history’s great collaborators. Darwin relied not only on colleagues but also on his family, friends and any other willing associates for advice, ideas, observations and samples. Not all contributions, however, were recognised in his published work; while the efforts of male contributors were diligently referenced, only those women who had already willingly entered the public sphere might expect to have their contributions publicly acknowledged.

Henrietta Darwin (date unknown)

Henrietta made a significant contribution to her father’s work, most notably as editor of Descent. Darwin’s correspondence suggests that she was selected as editor less for the civilizing, feminine influence she might exert on his work and more for her ability to digest his theories, clarify his arguments and sharpen his ideas.

Charles Darwin to Henrietta Darwin (8th February, 1870)

Darwin writes to his daughter Henrietta while she holidayed in Italy and France requesting her help with the editing of Descent. Darwin clearly had great faith in Henrietta’s ability both to understand his work and to improve his writing style.

Charles Darwin to Henrietta Darwin (1st March, 1870)

Darwin praises Henrietta’s edit of a pre-publication manuscript of Descent.