Senator Nelson was concerned about environmental problems and frustrated with the lack of attention on the issue in politics. Inspired by anti-war protests on college campuses, he envisioned Earth Day as an environmental teach-in to show widespread public support for the environment. The first Earth Day was held on April 22, 1970 and founded by Senator Nelson. Over 20 million Americans participated in events to raise awareness of environmental issues.
2. Nelson was deeply concerned about the
environmental problems facing the
nation and frustrated that the
environment seemed to have no place in
U.S. politics. Inspired by the success of
teach-ins being held on college campuses
byVietnam War protesters, Nelson
envisioned Earth Day as an
environmental teach-in, which would
show other politicians that there was
widespread public support for the
environment.
3. Earth Day is the world’s largest civic
observance, with more than 1 billion
participants worldwide.
The first Earth Day was held on 22 April,
1970.The day was founded by US Senator
Gaylord Nelson, inspired by anti-war protests
and appalled at a major oil spill in Santa
Barbara,California in 1969.
The date was chosen to avoid conflict with
other holidays. However, Arbor Day falls on
April 22 in Nebraska.
Another reason for the choice is that the
date is the official first day of spring in the
Northern Hemisphere and fall in the
Southern Hemisphere.
More than 20 millionAmericans took part
in the first Earth Day.
4. Joyful joyful we adore
our Earth in all its
wonderment
Simple gifts of nature
that all join into a
paradise
Now we must resolve to
protect her
Show her our love
throughout all time
With our gentle hand
and touch
We make our home a