First Along the River: A Brief History of the U.S. Environmental Movement

First Along the River: A Brief History of the U.S. Environmental Movement provides a balanced, historical perspective on the environmental movement in the US, highlighting key people and events, placing concepts in context, and examining the impact of government, industry, and population. The fifth edition includes updated coverage of recent developments.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 06 January 2022
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

First Along the River: A Brief History of the U.S. Environmental Movement is a comprehensive and engaging textbook that provides students with a balanced and historical perspective on the development of the environmental movement in the United States. Spanning from the pre-colonial era to the present, the book delves into the intricate connections between environmental issues and major social and political events throughout American history.

The book highlights the significant individuals and events that have shaped the environmental movement, placing them in the context of their historical significance. It also explores critical concepts such as environmentalism, sustainability, and conservation, providing students with a deeper understanding of these important ideas.

One of the key strengths of First Along the River is its ability to demonstrate the impact of government, industry, and population on the American landscape. The book explores how these entities have influenced the development of environmental policies and regulations, as well as the conservation efforts that have been undertaken to protect natural resources.

The fifth edition of the book, released in 2020, includes up-to-date coverage of the environmental movement and recent developments. It provides an overview of environmental issues since 2012, including climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. It also examines the environmental policies impacted by the Trump administration, such as the rollback of environmental regulations and the prioritization of fossil fuels.

In addition to the historical and policy aspects, First Along the River also explores the religious and philosophical beliefs that have shaped Americans' relationship to the environment. The book discusses the influence of religious traditions such as Christianity and Islam on environmental consciousness and the role of philosophical thinkers such as John Locke and Thomas Jefferson in shaping environmental thought.

Overall, First Along the River is an essential textbook for students studying environmental history, policy, and sustainability. It provides a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the field, while also challenging students to think critically and develop a deeper understanding of the complex and multifaceted issues surrounding the environment.

Weight: 350g
Dimension: 150 x 230 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538159330
Edition number: Fifth Edition