How and why did the Conservation Movement begin? (What makes the Progressive Era Conservation Movement different from environmentalism today?

http://www.loc.gov/teachers/classroommaterials/presentationsandactivities/presentations/timeline/progress/conserve/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Environmentalism

Off the top of my head, in the Progressive Era we/they did not have as much concern about pollution, greenhouse gasses, etc. The science wasn't there yet. The conservationists sought to conserve natural geographic areas, which we still do today, but modern environmentalism encompasses much more.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conservation_movement

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Environmentalism

The Conservation Movement began in the late 19th century in the United States as a response to the rapid industrialization and exploitation of natural resources. The movement aimed to protect and manage natural resources, such as forests, water, and wildlife, for sustainable use and future generations.

The Conservation Movement was driven by several factors. First, the widespread clear-cutting of forests, mining, and overhunting of wildlife for commercial purposes led to the depletion of resources and the destruction of habitats. This prompted concerns about the long-term consequences of such practices. Second, there was a growing recognition of the economic and social value of natural resources, such as water for irrigation, timber for construction, and recreation opportunities. Lastly, influential figures like Theodore Roosevelt, Gifford Pinchot, and John Muir played crucial roles in advocating for conservation policies and raising public awareness.

The Progressive Era Conservation Movement differed from environmentalism today in several ways. Firstly, the focus of the Conservation Movement was primarily on the responsible use and management of natural resources, rather than addressing broader environmental concerns. It emphasized the idea of wise utilization and preservation for future generations. On the other hand, modern environmentalism encompasses a broader range of issues, including pollution, climate change, biodiversity loss, and social justice.

Additionally, the Conservation Movement largely relied on utilitarian ideals, valuing natural resources for their potential economic benefits. The movement sought to balance economic growth with the conservation of resources, often promoting scientific resource management and regulation. In contrast, contemporary environmentalism often emphasizes intrinsic value, acknowledging the inherent worth of nature, and advocating for more transformative changes in human behavior, technology, and policy to address the environmental challenges we face.

In summary, the Conservation Movement began as a response to the destructive exploitation of natural resources during the rapid industrialization of the late 19th century. It focused on the responsible use and management of resources, driven by concerns about sustainability and the economic value of natural resources. While the Conservation Movement influenced and laid the foundation for modern environmentalism, there are differences in terms of scope, goals, and underlying philosophies.