Inhabited Wilderness: Indians, Eskimos, and National Parks in Alaska (New American West) [Hardcover]

Theodore , Catton (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: October 1, 1997 | Series: New American West

This volume, the first in the New American West Series edited by Elliott West, explores Alaska's vast national-park system and the evolution of wilderness concepts in the twentieth century. After World War II, Alaska's traditional Eskimos, Indians, and whites still trapped, hunted, and fished in the forests. Their presence challenged the uninhabited national parks and forced a complex debate over "inhabited wilderness." Focusing on three principal national parks—Glacier Bay, Denali, and Gates of the Arctic—the author explores the idea of "inhabited wilderness," which culminated in the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act in 1980. Among other units, the legislation set aside ten national parks, nine of which allow Alaska natives, whites included, "customary and traditional" subsistence use.

Editorial Reviews

From the Inside Flap

A history of the national parks in Alaska and how they protect the natural ecosystems while allowing certain populations to use the parks to maintain their cultural traditions. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

About the Author

Theodore Catton is a historian for Historical Research Associates in Missoula, Montana. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 309 pages
• Publisher: University of New Mexico Press; 1st edition (October 1, 1997)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0826318266
• ISBN-13: 978-0826318268
• Product Dimensions: 9.3 x 6.2 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.5 pounds
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,189,456 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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