Noted historian Robin W. Winks offers an in-depth look at the life and accomplishments of Laurance Rockefeller. This deftly argued and gracefully written volume explains and explores Rockefeller's role in shaping the transition from traditional land conservation to a more inclusive environmentalism. Laurance S. Rockefeller: Catalyst for Conservation provides a broad interpretation of the history of environmental protection through the work of one of this country's most visionary conservationists.
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From early childhood, Laurance S. Rockefeller was deeply interested in nature and conservation. Influenced by his family's long history of philanthropy, Rockefeller has used his considerable fortune to support environmental goals, even making conservation and historical preservation his life's work. Now 87, he is the subject of Robin W. Winks's biography, Laurance S. Rockefeller: Catalyst for Conservation. Over the years, Rockefeller has donated undisclosed millions of dollars to support national parks and establish historic sites. Winks suggests that his greatest contribution, however, was the time he spent as chairman of the Outdoor Recreation Resources Review Commission in the 1950s. During that time, many of the programs in place today that protect against pollution and designate federally protected wilderness areas were first proposed. Winks's sympathetic portrayal of an old-school philanthropist provides insight into both the conservationist movement in America today and the life of an extraordinary man.
Review
Winks's sympathetic portrait raises few criticisms. Notably lacking is a more thorough discussion of Rockefeller's missteps in the 1960s.... Such lapses, though, are outweighed by the book's pertinent conclusions. Not the least of these is celebrating the impact of wealth, ideas and personality focused on socially useful goals. -- The New York Times Book Review, Keith Schneider
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1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
How the wealthy do it . .,
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This review is from: Laurance S. Rockefeller: Catalyst For Conservation (Hardcover)
This was an interesting biography, perhaps a bit long, but filled with details on how the wealthy can use their money for the betterment of others. In the case of LSR, he was passionate about national parks and virtually devoted his entire life to this cause. He was the owner at one time of the Woodstock Inn in Woodstock, Vermont (a very nice place to stay) and developed several ecologically sensitive resorts. Contrasts are drawn between his three brothers - Nelson (politics), Winthrop (a govenor, conservationist), and rebel, and David (high tone investments). When the boys were young, their father, John D. Rockefeller Jr. took the boys on a trip west to visit the national parks. Mode of transportation was their private rail rail car. Not exactly roughing it by sleeping on bare ground. His grandfather was John D. Rockefeller, the oil baron who amassed the fortune which made the above possible. Interesting read.
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Blueprint for conservation,
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This review is from: Laurance S. Rockefeller: Catalyst For Conservation (Hardcover)
This book provides depth of insight into the heart and soul of man who made decisions based on their impact on future generations. It describes a thoroughly conservative approach to conservation. The author clearly explains that protection of great landscapes, or meaningful places, isn't accomplished simply by legislative action. Anyone with passion and foresight can make a difference. Mr. Rockefeller certainly had financial advantages and influence above that of ordinary citizens. What is extraordinary is that he simply could have acquired trophy properties to keep to himself; but he recognized the power of place and its potential impact on all. We, and all future generations of Americans owe him a great debt of gratitude. His conservation legacy is shared by all of us.Anyone who cherishes nature, or who works or volunteers for conservation organizations, needs to read this book.
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Front Cover | Front Flap | Table of Contents | First Pages | Index | Back Flap | Back Cover | Surprise Me!
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The president of the United States came rather abruptly through the door to the right of the audience, apologizing as he walked for being late and keeping so distinguished a group waiting. Read the first page Key Phrases - Statistically Improbable Phrases (SIPs): (learn more)
national park ethic, more beautiful capital, national beautification, national park proposal, recreation policy, proposed national park, redwood national park, great national parks, national park system, park units, new national park, park proposals, park movement Key Phrases - Capitalized Phrases (CAPs): (learn more)
New York, Laurance Rockefeller, National Park Service, Hudson River, Jackson Hole, White House, Storm King, United States, Grand Teton, Virgin Islands, Sierra Club, World War, Henry Diamond, Zoological Society, Nelson Rockefeller, New Jersey, Scenic Hudson, First Lady, President Johnson, Bronx Zoo, Jackson Lake, Native American, Colonial Williamsburg, Council of Parks, Eastern Airlines New!
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Front Cover | Front Flap | Table of Contents | First Pages | Index | Back Flap | Back Cover | Surprise Me!
The president of the United States came rather abruptly through the door to the right of the audience, apologizing as he walked for being late and keeping so distinguished a group waiting. Read the first page Key Phrases - Statistically Improbable Phrases (SIPs): (learn more)
national park ethic, more beautiful capital, national beautification, national park proposal, recreation policy, proposed national park, redwood national park, great national parks, national park system, park units, new national park, park proposals, park movement Key Phrases - Capitalized Phrases (CAPs): (learn more)
New York, Laurance Rockefeller, National Park Service, Hudson River, Jackson Hole, White House, Storm King, United States, Grand Teton, Virgin Islands, Sierra Club, World War, Henry Diamond, Zoological Society, Nelson Rockefeller, New Jersey, Scenic Hudson, First Lady, President Johnson, Bronx Zoo, Jackson Lake, Native American, Colonial Williamsburg, Council of Parks, Eastern Airlines New!
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Front Cover | Front Flap | Table of Contents | First Pages | Index | Back Flap | Back Cover | Surprise Me!
Citations (learn more)
This book cites 100
books:
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1
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cites this book:
- Great Smoky Mountains (Natural Wonders) by Jason Cooper on 6 pages
- A Sand County Almanac (Outdoor Essays & Reflections) by Aldo Leopold on page 111, Back Matter (1), and Back Matter (2)
- Land Use by David Rhind in Back Matter (1), Back Matter (2), and Back Matter (3)
- The Park Builders: A History of State Parks in the Pacific Northwest by Thomas R. Cox in Back Matter (1), and Back Matter (2)
- National Parks: The American Experience (Third Edition) by Alfred Runte in Back Matter (1), and Back Matter (2)
See all 100 books this book cites
- The Columbia Guide to American Environmental History by Carolyn Merchant in Back Matter
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