Greetings from Yosemite National Park

I took a trip to Yosemite this past summer with my mom, aunt, and cousin. Together we put away our electronics, put on our hiking boots, and explored the trails Yosemite had to offer. While we saw many beautiful views throughout the park, this view was the one that took my breath away. It wasn’t until I took a learned about the history of Yosemite that I looked at this photo differently from when I first saw it. Native Americans lived in this region for many years before Yosemite was declared a national park. When the park officials came in, they segregated these people and used their traditions as entertainment to increase tourism. They were then systematically kicked off their land as park officials cut down trees and paved pathways for future tourists like me to visit the park. Although I loved my time at Yosemite, I have come to realize that the definition of wilderness has been altered for public appeal.

Sincerely,
Lindsey

Yosemite National Park

With its sculpted granite rock formations, towering ancient sequoia trees and spectacular waterfalls, it's no wonder Yosemite is one of the most celebrated national parks in the world.

State(s): California

Established: 1890

“they were preserved from human interests!”

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