March 1 in American History

March 1, 1872 — Yellowstone becomes the first national park

President Grant signed the law making Yellowstone the first national park in the United States — and in the world. The idea was genuinely new: that a nation would set aside a vast wilderness of geysers and canyons "for the benefit and enjoyment of the people," owned by everyone and no one. America invented the national park here.

Common Questions About March 1

What happened on March 1 in American history?

In 1872: Yellowstone becomes the first national park. President Grant signed the law making Yellowstone the first national park in the United States — and in the world.

Why is March 1 significant?

President Grant signed the law making Yellowstone the first national park in the United States — and in the world. The idea was genuinely new: that a nation would set aside a vast wilderness of geysers and canyons "for the benefit and enjoyment of the people," owned by everyone and no one. America invented the national park here.

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