for those who have studied the subject, there has always been the recognition of Wallace's contributions. It's usually the laymen that seem to think that scientific discovery is some form of miraculous revelation that strikes only once. Intentional dig at creationists.

Both men did extensive research in what was then known as natural history; it was the fact that they had such broad backgrounds that enabled them to see the interactions of the larger puzzle.

Considering how Darwin became both the figurehead of evolution/natural selection and the target of creationists, Wallace may have breathed a sigh of relief to have avoided such a position. His contribution was known to those who mattered in the field and he could continue his work without attack.