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Marjory Stoneman Douglas: Environmental Champion and Voice of the Everglades

David Baldacci

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Published in An Everglades Providence: Marjory Stoneman Douglas And The American Environmental Century (Environmental History And The American South Ser )

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An Everglades Providence: Marjory Stoneman Douglas and the American Environmental Century (Environmental History and the American South Ser.)

by Jack E. Davis

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7320 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	812 pages

Pioneer of American Environmentalism

In the annals of American environmental history, the name Marjory Stoneman Douglas stands as a beacon of advocacy and preservation. As a pioneering writer, dedicated conservationist, and the driving force behind the establishment of Everglades National Park, her unwavering efforts shaped the course of American environmentalism in the 20th century.

Early Life and Writing Career

Born in 1890 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Marjory Stoneman Douglas developed a deep appreciation for the natural world at a young age. Her father, Fred Page Fulton, was a successful newspaper editor and instilled in her a love of writing. Douglas attended Wellesley College in Massachusetts, where she excelled in English and journalism.

In 1915, Douglas moved to Miami, Florida, with her husband, Kenneth Douglas. The vibrant coastal city captivated her, and she quickly immersed herself in its cultural and environmental scene. As a journalist, she wrote extensively about the natural beauty of the region, advocating for the protection of its unique ecosystems.

The "River of Grass" and Everglades Conservation

Douglas's most significant contribution to American environmentalism came through her unwavering advocacy for the Everglades. In her seminal 1947 book, "The Everglades: River of Grass," she eloquently described the vast, untamed wilderness of the Everglades, capturing the public's imagination and sparking a movement to preserve it.

Through her vivid prose, Douglas conveyed the importance of the Everglades as a critical habitat for wildlife, a source of freshwater, and a valuable recreational resource. She tirelessly campaigned for the creation of Everglades National Park, which was finally established in 1947, thanks in large part to her tireless efforts.

Environmental Legacy

Marjory Stoneman Douglas's legacy as an environmental champion extends far beyond the Everglades. Her advocacy for the protection of natural resources and her pioneering role in the conservation movement inspired countless others to join the fight for a healthier planet.

She served on the Florida State Planning Board, advocating for land-use planning and sustainable development. She also supported the establishment of Biscayne National Park and the national wilderness preservation system.

Recognition and Awards

Throughout her lifetime, Marjory Stoneman Douglas received numerous awards and accolades for her groundbreaking work. She was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for General Nonfiction in 1948 for "The Everglades: River of Grass." In 1977, her home was designated a National Historic Landmark in recognition of her contributions to environmental conservation.

Marjory Stoneman Douglas passed away in 1998 at the age of 108, leaving an enduring legacy as one of the most influential environmentalists in American history. Her unwavering dedication to the protection of the Everglades and her powerful writing inspired countless others to embrace the cause of environmental stewardship.

Today, Everglades National Park stands as a testament to Douglas's vision and tireless advocacy. Its vast wetlands and diverse wildlife serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural heritage for future generations.

An Everglades Providence: Marjory Stoneman Douglas and the American Environmental Century (Environmental History and the American South Ser.)

by Jack E. Davis

4.3 out of 5