John Muir (1838–1914) was a Scottish-American naturalist, environmentalist, and one of the most influential figures in the American conservation movement. Muir is best known for his advocacy for the preservation of wilderness areas, particularly in California. He co-founded the Sierra Club in 1892, which became a major force in the campaign to establish national parks and protect the American wilderness. Muir’s writings, including his detailed journals of his explorations of the Sierra Nevada, expressed his deep spiritual connection to nature and his belief in the importance of preserving pristine wilderness for future generations.
Muir’s efforts played a significant role in the establishment of national parks such as Yosemite and Sequoia National Park. His passionate advocacy for the environment, often framed in deeply personal and spiritual terms, helped shift public perception about the importance of nature conservation. Muir’s legacy continues to resonate in modern environmentalism, as his work laid the foundation for the national parks system and continues to inspire efforts to protect natural spaces around the world. His famous quote, “The mountains are calling and I must go,” encapsulates his lifelong dedication to exploring and preserving the natural world.