The historical figure known for proposing the theory of evolution through natural selection is Charles Darwin. In his groundbreaking work, "On the Origin of Species," published in 1859, Darwin presented compelling evidence for evolution, arguing that species evolve over time through a process of natural selection. His ideas revolutionized the fields of biology and natural history, influencing not only science but also philosophy and society's understanding of human origins. Darwin's theory challenged traditional views on creation and sparked widespread debate, ultimately laying the foundation for modern evolutionary biology.