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Origins of our National Parks
During the 1890s, as settlers claimed the last of America's frontier territories, dedicated private citizens fought to protect Western landscapes for posterity. Conservationists joined with John Muir and others to campaign for the establishment and protection of national parks. Enlightened politicians such as Theodore Roosevelt joined the crusade, and his administration added sites of historic significance to the system. Finally, in 1916, Congress established and funded the National Park Service, whose umbrella now protects natural wonders as well as heritage sites.
Did You Know?
The only post office that does not fly a US flag or cancel its mail with a ZIP Code is Benjamin Franklin Post Office in Philadelphia's Independence National Historic Park? |