How was the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Established?

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, located on the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, is one of the most visited national parks in the United States. Covering an area of over 522,000 acres, it is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. But how was this magnificent park established?

The establishment of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was a result of a long and complex process involving various individuals, organizations, and events. The idea of creating a national park in the Smokies originated in the early 20th century, primarily due to the efforts of conservationists, local residents, and politicians.

One of the key figures in the establishment of the park was George B. Henderson, a North Carolina state senator and conservationist. In 1923, Henderson introduced a bill in the North Carolina General Assembly to create a national park in the Smokies. Although the bill was defeated, it sparked a growing interest in the idea among the public and political leaders.

Another crucial factor in the park’s establishment was the efforts of the Appalachian Conservation Club, an organization dedicated to preserving the natural resources of the Southern Appalachians. The club played a significant role in promoting the idea of a national park and educating the public about the importance of conservation.

In 1926, the United States Congress passed the National Park Service Organic Act, which provided the legal framework for the creation of national parks. This act allowed for the establishment of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and in 1930, President Herbert Hoover signed the bill into law, making it the first national park to be established by an act of Congress.

The construction of the park began in 1933, during the Great Depression, as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal program. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), a federal public work relief program, played a crucial role in the park’s development, with thousands of workers building trails, roads, and facilities.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park officially opened to the public on September 2, 1940. Since then, it has become a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts, attracting millions of visitors each year.

In conclusion, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was established through the combined efforts of conservationists, local residents, and politicians, who recognized the importance of preserving the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Smokies. The park’s creation is a testament to the power of collaboration and the dedication of individuals who work to protect our natural resources for future generations.

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网友评论：

1. “What an interesting history of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! I had no idea it was established through such a collaborative effort.”
2. “I visited the park a few years ago and it’s truly breathtaking. It’s amazing to think about all the work that went into creating it.”
3. “I love how the CCC played a role in the park’s development. It’s fascinating to see the impact of the New Deal on our national parks.”
4. “I’m glad the park was established. It’s a beautiful place to visit and learn about the natural world.”
5. “I’ve always wondered how the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was established. This article answered all my questions!”
6. “The Appalachian Conservation Club deserves a lot of credit for their efforts in promoting the park’s creation.”
7. “I’m impressed by the dedication of the individuals who worked to establish the park. It’s a great example of conservation in action.”
8. “I’ve never been to the park, but I’ll definitely add it to my travel list now that I know its history.”
9. “It’s amazing how the park’s establishment was a result of both local and national efforts.”
10. “I appreciate the detailed explanation of the park’s history. It’s important to recognize the hard work that went into creating it.”
11. “I’m glad the park was established before it was too late. It’s a valuable resource for future generations.”
12. “I’ve heard so much about the Great Smoky Mountains, but this article gave me a deeper understanding of its history.”
13. “It’s fascinating to see how the park’s establishment was influenced by both environmental and political factors.”
14. “I’m proud to live in a country that values and protects its natural beauty. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a testament to that.”
15. “I’ve visited the park a few times and it never fails to amaze me. It’s a true gem of our country.”
16. “I’m glad the park was established before the area was fully developed. It’s a reminder of the importance of preserving natural spaces.”
17. “The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a great example of how conservation efforts can lead to the creation of beautiful national parks.”
18. “I’m impressed by the collaborative efforts of the individuals and organizations involved in the park’s establishment.”
19. “I’ve always wanted to visit the park, and now I have a better understanding of its significance.”
20. “It’s amazing to think about the impact the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has had on so many people over the years.