Do you think anyone ever called Charles Darwin "Charlie"? And if so, in what kind of social setting?

Answer 1

I've long had a similar question regarding 8th Century historian and Benedictine monk, the Venerable Bede. I suppose he's too long gone for it to matter much, but still I lean towards "Beady".

In Mr. Darwin's case, the historical record is far more clear. He was known to confidantes as "Chaz", and to a persistent group of detractors as "Monkey Boy". The diaries of his wife, now among the archives of London's Royal Society for the Perpetuation of Evolution, indicate that her own mother, opposed to the marriage on religious grounds, frequently referred to him as "Derwood".

It is ironic that while neither the Monkey Boy appellation nor his mother-in-law's willful refusal to learn his name seemed to bother him in the least, he was known to fly into a violent rage when addressed as "Chuck".

Answer 2

As I understand it, "Charlie" is an American nickname. Being English, Darwin was more likely called "Chaz," if his friends shortened his name at all.

Answer 3

Maybe when the boat he was on arrived in Galapagos:

"Dang, Charlie! Check out those water lizards!"

Did anyone call Einstein "Al"?

Answer 4

No, his drinking buddies called him Chuckie. Whenever he'd strike out at the Explorer's Club they'd all laugh and sing "Chuckie, Chuckie can't get lucky!"

Answer 5

yea, his mom probably did. And a lot of other guys in grade school. The respect came only later in life, and more so after it.

Answer 6

Probably the cousin he was married to.

Answer 7

i think at one time, someone must have moaned, "oh my god charlie...don't stop." at least for him, i hope so.