Natural / Environmental Change
Reconstruction / Industrialization Period

John Muir

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John Muir was one of America’s leading scientific figures in the late 1800s. Trained as a botanist (a specialist in the study of plants), Muir traveled throughout the country before settling down in California near what is now Yosemite National Park . There, he used his knowledge of the earth’s natural processes and his love of nature’s beauty to argue for the protection of the country’s natural resources. He became the nation’s most important conservationist. He met and befriended President Theodore Roosevelt, who then used Muir’s ideas to advocate for the establishment of a government agency to oversee national parks.

John Muir, full-length portrait, facing right, seated on rock with lake and trees in background

Seen here sitting on a rock looking thoughtful, Muir was one of the earliest advocates for federal protection of America’s natural beauty.

Yosemite National Park, Yosemite Falls, reflected, Yosemite National Park, CA

Muir spent much of his early years as a writer, traveler, and activist in Yosemite National Park, seen here.

The mountains of California, by John Muir

To help attract national attention to the issue of conservation, Muir published a variety of works on nature. The Mountains of California, written about the Sierra Nevada mountain range, was one of his most famous pieces.

Theodore Roosevelt and John Muir on Glacier Point, Yosemite Valley, California

In this image, Muir stands next to President Teddy Roosevelt in Yosemite. Muir’s friendship with the President helped further his cause; the President supported Muir’s ideas and supported laws to protect the environment.

Muir Woods, path through tres, Muir Woods, CA
Muir’s efforts to protect areas of natural importance were successful. The Sierra Club, which Muir founded, remains one of the nation’s leading environmental activist groups. Additionally, Muir’s work of promoting conservation led to the creation of the National Parks Service, created two years after Muir died.   The forested area seen here was named “Muir Woods” in honor of Muir.