How did john wesley powells attitudes/actions change over time
John Wesley Powell was an American explorer, geologist, and ethnologist who is best known for his exploration of the Colorado River and the Grand Canyon. Over time, his attitudes and actions underwent several significant changes.
1. Early career: Powell initially focused on scientific exploration and the study of geology. He believed in the importance of understanding the natural environment through scientific methods and advocated for the preservation of natural resources.
2. Civil War: During the American Civil War, Powell severed his right arm after being wounded in the Battle of Shiloh. This experience had a profound impact on him and influenced his later perspectives. He became more focused on the relationships between humans and their environment, as well as the impact of human activities on the natural world.
3. Exploration and advocacy: Powell's most famous expedition was his exploration of the Colorado River and the Grand Canyon in 1869. Through this journey, he witnessed the challenging and dangerous nature of the region and recognized the need for preservation measures. He argued for the establishment of large-scale irrigation projects and the need for sustainable practices to ensure the long-term survival of arid regions.
4. Land policy: Powell took on a more political role after his explorations. He became the head of the U.S. Geological Survey and actively pushed for policies concerning land and water management. He advocated for the federal government's role in regulating the use of natural resources, promoting conservation, and preventing wasteful practices.
5. Indigenous perspectives: As Powell interacted with Native American tribes during his expeditions, he developed an appreciation for their cultures and knowledge. He believed in the importance of incorporating indigenous perspectives into land and water management policies, urging the government to respect their rights and involve them in decision-making processes.
6. Later years: Towards the end of his life, Powell's ideas expanded to include socioeconomic and political issues. He became an advocate for land redistribution and cooperative communities, proposing policies to address inequality and poverty.
Overall, John Wesley Powell's attitudes and actions changed from a focus on scientific exploration to a broader concern for the relationship between humans and the natural world, the rights and perspectives of indigenous peoples, the need for sustainable land and water management, and socioeconomic equality.