Uncovering the Rich Tapestry of Deep Environmental History - Connecting The Greater West Series

Deep environmental history is an intriguing field that examines the intricate relationship between human civilization and the natural world throughout time. Exploring the Greater West region, which encompasses vast areas across North America, this series aims to shed light on how human activities have shaped the environment and the subsequent impact on our society today.

Unraveling the Forgotten Past

Connecting The Greater West series delves into the deep roots of our environmental heritage, unearthing forgotten stories and painting a vivid picture of the complex interactions between humans and their surroundings. From ancient societies like the indigenous tribes that inhabited the land long before European colonization to the arrival of explorers, settlers, and later industrialization, we have a rich tapestry of narratives to explore.

Each article in this series will take you on a captivating journey across time, examining key events, natural phenomena, and societal developments that have shaped the land we call home. We will connect the dots between historical events and their lasting impacts on our current global environmental challenges.

Bison and People on the North American Great Plains: A Deep Environmental History (Connecting the Greater West Series)

by Geoff Cunfer(Kindle Edition)

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	17686 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	341 pages

FREE

The Environmental Legacy of Indigenous Peoples

The early inhabitants of the Greater West possessed a deep understanding of the land and its resources. Their sustainable practices allowed for a harmonious coexistence between humans and nature. We will explore their profound knowledge of ecosystems, conservation practices, and the pivotal role they played in shaping the landscape.

The devastating consequences of European colonization and the subsequent displacement and marginalization of indigenous communities will also be examined. By acknowledging their stewardship and learning from their traditional ecological knowledge, we can shape a more sustainable future.

Environmental Consequences of Exploration and Expansion

As European explorers set foot on new lands, they brought with them new beliefs, systems, and technologies that fundamentally altered the ecological balance endemic to the Greater West. The of invasive species, deforestation, and the depletion of natural resources resulted in irreversible changes to the environment.

We will delve into the environmental impact of westward expansion, including the construction of railroads and extraction industries, such as mining and logging. Understanding the exploitative practices that have scarred the land will allow us to reflect upon our current industrial practices and consider more sustainable alternatives.

Industrialization's Mark on the Landscape

The onset of industrialization in the 19th and 20th centuries further intensified the human impact on the environment. The expansion of cities, increased pollution, and the rise of consumerism significantly transformed the Greater West's natural landscapes.

Examining the historical development of energy production, transportation, and agriculture, we will uncover the far-reaching consequences of choices made in the past. By understanding the roots of our current environmental crisis, we can rethink our approach to resource management and work towards a more sustainable future.

Connecting the Past and the Present

Deep environmental history connects us to our roots and enables us to recognize the consequences of our actions. By delving into the past, we gain a deeper appreciation for the delicate ecological balance and the urgent need to protect our planet.

Through this series, we hope to inspire readers to reflect upon their own relationship with the environment and empower them to take small steps towards positive change. Together, we can forge a more sustainable future that respects the lessons of the past and strives for a healthier planet for generations to come.

The Journey Begins

Join us on this immersive journey through deep environmental history, as we set out to connect the past, present, and future. The Greater West awaits, brimming with stories untold and lessons yet to be learned.

Bison and People on the North American Great Plains: A Deep Environmental History (Connecting the Greater West Series)

by Geoff Cunfer(Kindle Edition)

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	17686 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	341 pages

FREE

The near disappearance of the American bison in the nineteenth century is commonly understood to be the result of over-hunting, capitalist greed, and all but genocidal military policy. This interpretation remains seductive because of its simplicity; there are villains and victims in this familiar cautionary tale of the American frontier. But as this volume of groundbreaking scholarship shows, the story of the bison’s demise is actually quite nuanced.

Bison and People on the North American Great Plains brings together voices from several disciplines to offer new insights on the relationship between humans and animals that approached extinction. The essays here transcend the border between the United States and Canada to provide a continental context. Contributors include historians, archaeologists, anthropologists, paleontologists, and Native American perspectives.

This book explores the deep past and examines the latest knowledge on bison anatomy and physiology, how bison responded to climate change (especially drought),and early bison hunters and pre-contact trade. It also focuses on the era of European contact, in particular the arrival of the horse, and some of the first known instances of over-hunting. By the nineteenth century bison reached a “tipping point” as a result of new tanning practices, an early attempt at protective legislation, and ventures to introducing cattle as a replacement stock. The book concludes with a Lakota perspective featuring new ethnohistorical research.

Bison and People on the North American Great Plains is a major contribution to environmental history, western history, and the growing field of transnational history.