His countrymen owe him gratitude as the pioneer of our system of national parks. Out of the fight which he led for the better care of the Yosemite by the State of California grew the demand for the extension of the system. To this many persons and organizations contributed, but Muir's writings and enthusiasm were the chief forces that inspired the movement. All the other torches were lighted from his.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- This text credits Muir as the main force inspiring the national park system through his writing and passion.
- In plain terms
- Muir's passion and writing built the US park system.
- What can you take from it?
- Passion and advocacy can shape public policy.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Who inspired your civic engagement?
- How can one person change policy?
Another view
It overlooks other contributors to the park system.
More from John Muir
He was the patriarch of American lovers of mountains, one who had not only a passion for the splendours of Nature, but a wonderful power of interpreting her to…
Permalink to quote #82 John Muir will never be fully appreciated by those whose minds are filled with money getting and the sordid things of modern every-day life. To such Muir is an…
Permalink to quote #84 John Muir has been a role model to generations of Californians and to conservationists around the world. He taught us to be active and to enjoy- but at the sam…
Permalink to quote #81
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