The famous scientist whose theory of evolution shifted perspectives in the 19th century was Charles Darwin. His groundbreaking work, "On the Origin of Species," published in 1859, introduced the concept of natural selection, arguing that species evolve over time through the process of adaptation to their environments. Darwin's theory challenged traditional views of creation and sparked widespread debate regarding human origins, biology, and the interconnectedness of life. His research laid the foundation for modern evolutionary biology and significantly influenced various fields, including genetics, anthropology, and ecology, ultimately reshaping how humanity understands itself in relation to the natural world.