The Preservation Era

The Preservation Era, spanning roughly from the late 19th to early 20th century, focused on protecting natural areas from human development and exploitation. During this time, organizations and government policies prioritized preserving wilderness, parks, and significant landscapes for their intrinsic value and future enjoyment. It emphasized safeguarding nature in its untouched state, often creating national parks and reserves to set land aside for conservation and public appreciation. This era laid the foundation for modern environmental protection, balancing the appreciation of natural beauty with efforts to prevent overuse and degradation.