“The Wilderness Warrior” by Douglas Brinkley
Reviewed by Cornell University professor Glenn C. Altschuler reviews The Wilderness Warrior, a new biography that focuses on Theodore Roosevelt’s push to preserve America’s wilderness.
“Roosevelt was able to persuade congressmen, bureaucrats in the departments of Agriculture and Interior, and millions of Americans that saving “natural wonders, wildlife species, timberlands, and diverse habitats was a patriotic endeavor.” When he couldn’t, he went beyond his legal authority (to preserve The Grand Canyon as a public park) or issued “I So Declare It” executive orders.”
Some question the constitutionality behind government-enforced conservation. I believe many of these arguments are valid. Wherever you stand on the issue, one point is clear: for better or for worse, much of the USA’s most amazing wilderness preservation can be traced-back to Teddy Roosevelt.
Rough rider
