Women's History Activator: Rachel Carson

Rachel Carson's book Silent Spring, published in 1962, highlighted the harmful effects of pesticides on nature, sparking the modern conservation movement. Born in 1907, Carson pursued a career in zoology and worked for the US Bureau of Fisheries. Her books, including The Sea Around Us, gained international acclaim. Silent Spring faced criticism from pesticide companies and the US government, but Carson's research was validated by a presidential advisory committee. Her work led to increased environmental awareness and the establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency in 1970. Carson received posthumous recognition for her contributions to environmentalism.

What was the main focus of Rachel Carson's book Silent Spring?

• The life of marine animals

• The impact of humans on nature

• The benefits of industrial chemicals

• The history of the United States

Where did Rachel Carson work for 15 years, focusing on fish biology?

• The Baltimore Sun

• The US Bureau of Fisheries

• The Atlantic Monthly

• The Environmental Protection Agency

Which of Rachel Carson's books became a bestseller and won the National Book Award?

• Under the Sea Wind

• The Sea Around Us

• The Edge of the Sea

• Silent Spring

What action did President Kennedy take in response to Silent Spring?

• He commissioned a science advisory committee report

• He ignored the book's findings

• He awarded Carson the Nobel Prize

• He banned all pesticides

What significant agency was established partly due to Rachel Carson's influence?

• The United Nations Environment Programme

• The World Wildlife Fund

• The Environmental Protection Agency

• The National Park Service