Originally published, anonymously, in 1844, Vestiges proved to be highly controversial. In it, Chambers integrated research in burgeoning sciences of the day in an attempt to link natural sciences to a history of creation. The ensuing debate set the stage for the controversy over Darwin's works. Chambers later published Explanations: A Sequel in which he defended his work. Both works are reprinted here, along with a bibliography of reviews, Chamber's early writings on cosmology, and essays on Darwin and Chambers.