How Did Rachel Carson Contribute To The Environmental Protection Movement

The 1960s were known for their social and political movements; explicitly, the Environmental and Consumer Protection Movement. These movements were significant for citizens of the United States. These movements led the establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act, and the Clean Air Act. The purpose was to sustain the beautiful life Americans created for themselves and for future generations.
The Environmental Protection Movement originated during the Industrial Revolution as a response to the increase of air pollution in the atmosphere. However, Rachel Carson’s book, Silent Spring, is what sparked the contemporaneous movement. Carson discussed the threats DDT and other chemicals have on the environment. DDT led to the poisoning and deaths of wildlife, including the national symbol: bald eagle. Americans became cognizant and outraged of the effects chemicals may have not only on

The movement was started initially in the 1900s. The Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906 was established to withdraw foods and drugs that were considered dangerous or addictive. Sixty years later, Ralph Nader was associated with the rebirth of this movement. Ralph Nader wrote Unsafe at Any Speed. He spoke about the dangers of automobiles to the environment and drivers. His book caused a phenomenon. In 1966, Nader appeared before Congress to discuss the hazards of cars. That year, Congress ratified the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act which enforced the installation and use of seat belts and booster seats, and restrictions that prohibit the purchase of alcohol among underaged drivers. Nader also investigated meatpacking businesses and helped pass the Wholesome Meat Act of 1967. The results were safer highways, safer food and therefore safe