HIS 100 Project Template (1)
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Southern New Hampshire University *
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Apr 3, 2024
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HIS 100 Project Template (1) HIS 100 Project Template
Use this template to address the steps in your Project Guidelines and Rubric. Replace the bracketed text with your responses. Ensure that you have considered your instructor’s feedback when revising your work. Proofread the entire document before submitting.
Part 1: Creating a Research Question
1.
Describe how your assumptions, beliefs, and values influenced your choice of topic.
When thinking about the three factors listed above; assumptions, beliefs, and values in reflecting how these individual factors may or may have not influenced my decision to choose the topic of the creation of earth day, there were not any assumptions that I can readily think about that I held towards this topic. As far as my personal beliefs are concerned, these undoubtedly played a huge role in my decision to research the creation of earth day. I am, and have for as long as I can recollect, been a huge advocate and proponent for the idea that all people have a personal responsibility to not only us but also to future generations to come, to be as conscious, concerned, and fully informed on the role that each one of us plays in climate change, environmental hazards, but most importantly, what each of us individually can do to positively impact the current state of our planet which societies carelessness and indifference is largely responsible for. Additionally, for as long as I can remember I have felt a strong pull towards individual accountability and consciousness as it relates to everyday routines and more specifically, our behaviors. Each one of us regardless of whether we are conscious of this or not, have behave in ways which lead us to actions which either harm or help our planet and our species chance for survival. I believe that each one of us has a duty as a living being inhabiting this planet which sustains our livelihood, to be far more sensitive and much more aware of direct impact.
Finally, the values of environmental preservation and conservation played a significant role in the creation of Earth Day and in my decision to explore this topic. Because Earth Day
was created, society finally began to realize the importance of safeguarding the Earth's natural resources, biodiversity, and ecosystems. They valued the intrinsic beauty of nature and recognized the need to act responsibly to prevent further degradation. Through Earth Day, individuals and organizations aimed to instill these ecological values in society, promoting environmental stewardship and sustainable lifestyles. These values are directly in alignment with my own personal values and were also a considerable factor that influenced my selecting this topic.
2.
Discuss the significance of your historical research question in relation to your current event.
A historical perspective that could be applied to the creation of Earth Day is the broader context of social and cultural movements in the 1960s. This era was marked by a wave of activism and awareness related to civil rights, women's rights, peace, and the environment.
During the 1960s, there was a growing sense of dissatisfaction with the status quo and a desire for social change. People were questioning traditional values and challenging authority in 1
various areas of society. This cultural shift contributed to the emergence of the environmental movement and the eventual creation of Earth Day.
The 1960s witnessed pivotal events, such as the Civil Rights Movement and the Vietnam War protests, which galvanized individuals and groups to question systems of power and advocate for change. These movements raised awareness about the interconnectedness of social justice and environmental issues.
In this context, the creation of Earth Day can be seen as a response to the broader cultural climate of activism and a growing awareness of the need to protect the environment. It was an opportunity for people to come together and channel their energy towards environmental causes.
The environmental movement of the 1960s and the events leading up to Earth Day demonstrate
the power of collective action and grassroots organizing. It reflects a historical moment when people recognized the importance of environmental sustainability and began to demand governmental and societal action to address pressing ecological concerns.
By looking through this historical lens, we can understand Earth Day as part of a larger movement for social and environmental justice during a time of significant societal transformation. It underscores the intersectionality of various movements and the shared goal of creating a more equitable and sustainable world.
3.
Explain how you used sources to finalize your research question.
By viewing my selected sources through the historical lens of the 1960’s and 70’s environmental movement, I was able to narrow my parameters for the basis of what my research question would entail and what it would attempt to accomplish as well as its overall objective. By selecting one specific time period to focus on instead of many decades between the first earth day and our current day, this helped bring focus to my research question and helped to prevent my finalized research question from being too broad.
Part 2: Building Context to Address Questions
1.
Describe the context of your historical event that influenced your current event.
The 1969 oil spill off the coast of Santa Barbara had a significant influence on the modern-day Earth Day and environmental activism (Nelson, G. 1970).
The spill, which released an estimated 3 million gallons of crude oil into the ocean, had a devastating impact on the local marine ecosystem and the surrounding beaches.
The oil spill served as a catalyst for increased public awareness and concern about environmental issues. It was a highly visible event that captured national attention and raised alarm about the environmental risks associated with offshore oil drilling and industrial pollution.
The Santa Barbara oil spill played a crucial role in mobilizing the public and galvanizing the 2
environmental movement. It contributed to a wave of protests and demonstrations across the country, as people became more conscious of the need to protect the environment and prevent similar disasters.
The Santa Barbara oil spill served as a powerful symbol of the environmental risks associated with industry and sparked a renewed sense of urgency to protect natural resources, promote sustainability, and hold corporations accountable for their actions. It brought environmental issues to the forefront of the public consciousness and influenced a new generation of environmental activists.
In terms of policy, the oil spill played a significant role in the passage of key environmental legislation. It contributed to the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1970 and spurred the implementation of regulations and measures to prevent and respond to oil spills.
Overall, the 1969 Santa Barbara oil spill was a pivotal event in shaping modern-day Earth Day and environmental activism. It highlighted the need for environmental awareness, inspired grassroots movements, and propelled changes in environmental policies and regulations to protect our planet.
2.
Describe a historical figure or group’s participation in your historical event.
Gaylord Nelson, a U.S. Senator from Wisconsin, was deeply affected by the Santa Barbara oil spill and recognized the urgent need for environmental action. Inspired by the student-led anti-
war movement, Nelson proposed the idea of a national "teach-in" on the environment, which eventually led to the creation of Earth Day.
3.
Explain the historical figure or group’s motivation to participate in your historical event.
Senator Gaylord Nelson's motivation to participate in the creation of Earth Day stemmed from his deep concern for the environment and his desire to raise public awareness about pressing environmental issues. The source for his involvement was the 1969 oil spill off the coast of Santa
Barbara, California.
The Santa Barbara oil spill, which resulted in substantial environmental damage, deeply affected Senator Nelson. Witnessing the devastating consequences of the spill firsthand and recognizing the need for immediate action, he was inspired to propose a nationwide event focused on environmental education and activism.
Senator Nelson believed that a grassroots movement was necessary to bring attention to environmental concerns and push for legislative action. He drew inspiration from the student-
led anti-war movement, which demonstrated the power of mass mobilization and activism.
Motivated by the success of the anti-war movement and the growing public interest in environmental issues, Senator Nelson proposed the idea of a national "teach-in" on the environment. This event, which would later become known as Earth Day, aimed to educate the public about environmental challenges and encourage individuals to act at the local, national, 3
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and global levels.
Senator Nelson sought to create a platform for people from all walks of life to come together and demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship. He believed that by raising awareness and harnessing public support, environmental issues would gain the attention and priority they deserved.
Senator Gaylord Nelson's motivation for participating in the creation of Earth Day was driven by his unwavering dedication to the environment and his belief in the power of collective action to drive positive change. He recognized the urgent need to address environmental challenges and saw Earth Day to engage individuals, communities, and policymakers in the fight for a healthier and more sustainable planet.
Part 3: Examining How Bias Impacts Narrative
1.
Describe a narrative you identified while researching the history of your historical event.
While the creation of Earth Day is often discussed in the context of environmental activism, an overlooked narrative lies in its intersection with social justice movements of the time. Earth Day was not solely a call to protect the environment but also a movement that recognized the interconnectedness of environmental issues with broader societal concerns.
During the 1960s and 1970s, the United States was experiencing significant social and political upheaval, including civil rights movements, women's liberation movements, and anti-war protests. In this backdrop, Earth Day emerged as a platform that sought to address both environmental and social justice issues.
Many of the activists involved in Earth Day and the larger environmental movement recognized that the effects of pollution, environmental degradation, and resource exploitation disproportionately impacted marginalized communities. They understood that environmental justice was closely intertwined with racial and economic justice.
Communities of color and low-income communities often bore the brunt of industrial pollution, toxic waste sites, and other environmental hazards. The creation of Earth Day provided an opportunity to shed light on these inequities and advocate for a more just and sustainable future.
Through Earth Day events and activism, the environmental movement started collaborating with
civil rights organizations, labor unions, and advocates for social justice. They worked together to address the interconnectedness of environmental degradation, poverty, and discrimination. This
collaboration aimed to create a more equitable society where everyone, regardless of race or socioeconomic status, could live in a clean and healthy environment.
The environmental and social justice narrative within the creation of Earth Day paved the way for the environmental justice movement that gained traction in subsequent decades. It prompted the realization that environmental protection and social justice go hand in hand, and that addressing one without considering the other is incomplete.
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By recognizing the overlooked narrative of the intersection between environmentalism and social justice, we gain a more comprehensive understanding of the motivations and aspirations behind the creation of Earth Day. It underscores the importance of addressing environmental issues through an inclusive lens, ensuring that marginalized communities are not left behind in the pursuit of a sustainable world.
1.
Articulate how biased perspectives presented in primary and secondary sources influence what is known or unknown about history.
In the case of the creation of Earth Day, biases which can be found within the historical sources I
have selected, may shape understanding of key factors, motivations, and events related to its inception. For example, both sources downplayed the role of marginalized communities, and other social justice movements and the importance that their contributions had on the environmental movement and the creation of Earth Day. This results in a skewed portrayal of the movement as solely driven by mainstream activists or political figures.
Additionally, these biases further impact the historical record by influencing the selection and interpretation of source material. The historians and researchers featured in my selected sources may have focused on sources that align with their own biases or preconceived narratives, leading to a limited understanding of the subject. This selective use of sources has the potential to skew representation of the historical context and the motivations behind the creation of Earth Day.
Identify the perspectives that you think are missing from your historical event’s narrative.
As previously stated, the two perspectives that I was successful in identifying were that of marginalized communities, and other social justice movements.
Part 4: Connecting the Past with the Present
1.
Explain how researching its historical roots helped improve your understanding of your current event.
Researching the historical roots of the creation of Earth Day improves one's understanding of modern-day Earth Day by providing important context and insights into its significance and relevance in current times. Here are a few ways in which historical research enhances our understanding:
Continuity of Environmental Activism: Studying the historical roots of Earth Day reveals that environmental activism is not a recent phenomenon, but a longstanding movement with deep historical roots. Understanding the origins and evolution of environmental activism helps us appreciate the ongoing efforts and the progress made in environmental conservation and sustainability.
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Awareness of Key Environmental Challenges: Researching the historical roots of Earth Day sheds
light on the environmental challenges that drove its creation. This knowledge helps us recognize that many of these challenges are still relevant today, such as pollution, deforestation, climate change, and loss of biodiversity. Understanding the historical context provides insights into the urgent need to address these challenges and prompts us to take meaningful action.
Influence on Environmental Policy: Earth Day played a crucial role in shaping environmental policy. By researching its historical roots, we gain a deeper understanding of the legislative changes that were spurred by the movement, such as the establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the passage of key environmental laws (NELSON, T. 2020).
This knowledge can inspire and inform current advocacy efforts to shape environmental policies and regulations.
Grassroots Activism and Community Engagement: The creation of Earth Day was driven by grassroots activism and community engagement. Understanding the historical roots highlights the power of individual and collective action and can inspire individuals and communities to get involved in environmental initiatives, engage in sustainable practices, and contribute to positive change.
Awareness of Global Collaboration: Researching Earth Day's history reveals its impact beyond national boundaries. Earth Day has evolved into a global movement, bringing together people from different countries and cultures to address shared environmental concerns. Recognizing this international collaboration opens doors for global initiatives and encourages collective action to tackle environmental issues that transcend borders.
By delving into the historical roots of Earth Day, we gain a broader understanding of the ongoing
relevance and importance of environmental awareness, activism, and sustainability in modern-
day society. This knowledge empowers individuals and communities to make informed choices, engage in environmental stewardship, and contribute to a more sustainable future.
2.
Articulate how questioning your assumptions, beliefs, and values may benefit you as an individual.
Questioning my assumptions, beliefs, and values about the creation of Earth Day allows for the following:
Critical Thinking and Intellectual Growth: By challenging assumptions, beliefs, and values, individuals engage in critical thinking and open themselves to new perspectives and information.
This process promotes intellectual growth and expands their understanding of complex issues like the creation of Earth Day.
Broadened Perspective: Questioning assumptions allows individuals to consider alternative viewpoints and narratives. They can gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse range of factors and influences that contributed to the creation of Earth Day. This broadened perspective enhances their understanding of the complexities involved and fosters empathy towards different perspectives.
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Personal Growth and Reflection: Reflecting on one's assumptions, beliefs, and values about Earth Day encourages personal growth. It prompts individuals to evaluate their own motivations
and values regarding environmental conservation and sustainability. This introspection can lead to personal commitment and actions aligned with their true beliefs.
Enhanced Empathy and Understanding: Questioning assumptions about the creation of Earth Day fosters empathy and understanding for the experiences, struggles, and motivations of different individuals and groups involved in the environmental movement. It promotes a more nuanced understanding of diverse perspectives, amplifies marginalized voices, and encourages collaboration towards common environmental goals.
Increased Engagement and Activism: Challenging assumptions and beliefs can inspire individuals
to actively engage in environmental activism. It motivates them to participate in Earth Day events, support environmental organizations, and advocate for sustainable practices. This increased engagement can have a positive impact on communities and contribute to environmental change.
Alignment of Values and Actions: Questioning assumptions and beliefs helps individuals align their values with their actions. It allows them to evaluate whether their current behaviors and choices align with their commitment to environmental protection. This self-reflection can lead to personal transformations and a greater sense of purpose in working towards a more sustainable future.
Overall, questioning assumptions, beliefs, and values about the creation of Earth Day benefits individuals by promoting critical thinking, broadening perspectives, fostering personal growth, enhancing empathy, and inspiring meaningful engagement. It empowers individuals to make informed choices and actively contribute to environmental conservation efforts.
3.
Discuss how being a more historically informed citizen may help you understand contemporary issues.
Being a more historically informed citizen can help a person understand contemporary issues in several different ways. The first of these is through greater contextual understanding. Historical knowledge provides the necessary context to understand the root causes, development, and evolution of contemporary issues. By studying the historical background of a particular issue, individuals can gain insights into its origins, contributing factors, and patterns of recurrence. This
contextual understanding allows for a more comprehensive analysis of the issue.
Additionally, by being a more historically informed citizen we can better understand patterns and trends. History often repeats itself, and by studying past events and trends, individuals can identify patterns and trends that can help them make more informed judgments about current issues. Recognizing historical patterns can provide valuable insights into the potential consequences and outcomes of contemporary policies and actions.
Also, historical knowledge provides a deeper understanding of the cultural and social factors that shape contemporary issues. By examining the historical context of different communities 7
and societies, individuals can develop empathy, recognize diverse perspectives, and appreciate the complexities of contemporary social problems.
Being historically informed also encourages critical thinking and analysis. It helps individuals evaluate information, challenge assumptions, and develop a more nuanced understanding of complex issues. Historical knowledge enables individuals to question dominant narratives, identify biases, and approach contemporary issues with a more discerning mindset.
In summary, being a more historically informed citizen provides a broader perspective, enhances
critical thinking skills, and allows individuals to analyze contemporary issues in a more informed and nuanced manner. It enables individuals to recognize the underlying complexities, patterns, and trends that shape current events and policies, ultimately leading to a more comprehensive understanding of the world around them.
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References
Nelson, G. (1970). National Teach-In on the Crisis of the Environment. American Libraries, 1(2), 140–141. http://www.jstor.org/stable/25617799
NELSON, T. (2020). The Day the Earth Moved. Progressive, 84(2), 51.
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