In the 19th century, a heated dispute arose over the house sparrow and its introduction into North America. Elliot Coues and Thomas Mayo Brewer held opposing opinions on the matter which they defended their entire lives.
Research:

Gustave Flaubert and the ‘Madame Bovary’ Trial
45:15

Elizabeth Bisland, Beyond the Trip Around the World
42:54

SYMHC Classics: Marie Laurencin
32:46