Stuff You Should Know

Behold, National Parks!

6 snips
Mar 8, 2022
Discover the fascinating legacy of America's national parks, starting with the historic establishment of Yellowstone. Explore the complex history involving Indigenous communities and conservation efforts. Hear about the colorful stories of hiking the Grand Canyon and the challenges of protecting these stunning landscapes. The impact of key figures like John Muir and Teddy Roosevelt comes to life, alongside discussions on climate change and biodiversity. Learn how national parks evolve while providing economic benefits and shaping our connection to nature.
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ANECDOTE

Yosemite's Misnomer

  • The Mariposa Battalion, sent to remove Native Americans from Yosemite Valley, were awestruck by its beauty.
  • They named the valley Yosemite, mistakenly believing it was the name of the local tribe, who actually called it Awani.
INSIGHT

Linked History of Parks and Reservations

  • National parks and Indian reservations share a troubling linked history of displacement.
  • Both were created around the same time, based on the premise of seizing land for white settlers.
ANECDOTE

Yellowstone's Origin

  • During an 1870 expedition in Yellowstone, Cornelius Hedges proposed preserving the land for public use.
  • This led to Ulysses S. Grant signing the Yellowstone Park Protection Act, establishing the world's first national park.
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