The Scripture of Nature (1851-1890) -
national parks: america's best idea

In 1864, Congress passes an act that protects Yosemite for "public use, resort and recreation"-the first time in world history that any government has proposed this idea. In 1872, Congress creates America's first national park: Yellowstone.

Episode Duration: 1 hour 56 minutes and 46 seconds

Episode Number: 101

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About National Parks: America's Best Idea:

The film is a human history set against the most stunning backdrop imaginable.

The film works its way chronologically through the history of the national parks featuring characters -- some famous, most not, from every walk of life -- who dedicated their lives to insuring all could enjoy these places.

The film explores how the national park system came to be and examines some -- but not all -- of how these majestic places came to be national parks.