Long Term Historical Context
Long Term: Background
Before 1966, efforts to save species at risk of extinction were virtually nonexistent. No organizations, laws, or movements were implemented to protect animals. Had laws we have today been applied a hundred years ago many extinct organisms would be walking the world right now.
Long Term: DDT Background
DDT is a chemical formula produced to kill harmful organisms. It would be sprayed over an area infested with disease-spreading bugs and animals. When created in 1874, DDT was considered a life-saving, revolutionary discovery. The newly produced chemical was heavily utilized during WWII, terminating malaria-causing insects that were killing large numbers of soldiers. For this incredible discovery, the creator was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.
Courtesy of the Pesticide Action Network
Long Term: DDT Problems
Despite its success, DDT also had the capability of killing organisms it had no intentions of attacking. After being used on insects, DDT would enter into ecosystems' food webs, causing the chemical to be consumed by other species higher in the trophic pyramid. This led to the decline of healthy populations, raising questions.
Long Term: The Bald Eagle
During the mid-1900s the bald eagle was falling victim to the use of DDT and illegal hunting, approaching extinction. Being our country's national symbol, it brought attention to the issue of animal protection and the use of chemicals in the environment.
Below, the Passenger Pigeon, a native to Wisconsin, went extinct prior to the ESA. Courtesy of the Wisconsin Historical Society
