Ep 2. The Last Refuge (1890-1915)

"The Last Refuge (1890-1915)" is the second episode in the first season of Ken Burns' The National Parks: America's Best Idea. This episode explores the idea of national parks as a refuge for both humans and wildlife. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, many people saw the natural world as a place to escape the rapidly industrializing society around them. This episode focuses on the establishment of three early national parks: Sequoia, Yosemite, and Mount Rainier.

The episode begins with the story of John Muir, a naturalist and writer who played a crucial role in the creation of Yosemite National Park. Muir believed that national parks were essential to preserving the natural world for future generations, and he spent much of his life advocating for their creation. The episode includes many stunning shots of the Yosemite Valley, highlighting the park's natural beauty and the unique rock formations that make it so famous.

From there, the episode moves to Mount Rainier, which was established as a national park in 1899. Mount Rainier is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, bears, and mountain goats. The park was founded in part to protect these animals from human interference, and the episode explores the challenges faced by early park rangers in enforcing this mission. There are also interviews with park visitors who talk about why they come to Mount Rainier and how it provides a respite from their busy lives.

The final park featured in the episode is Sequoia, which is home to some of the largest trees in the world. Sequoia National Park was established in 1890, making it one of the earliest national parks in the United States. The episode explores the role that Sequoia and other national parks played in the early conservation movement, and we see some of the early battles between conservationists and developers who wanted to exploit these natural resources for their own gain.

Throughout the episode, we see the passion and dedication of the people who fought to create and protect these early national parks. From John Muir to park rangers to the everyday visitors who come to these parks seeking solace and inspiration, there is a deep love and respect for the natural world that shines through. The Last Refuge is a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving these natural treasures for future generations.