February 26

On February 26, 1919, President Woodrow Wilson signed legislation creating Grand Canyon National Park in northern Arizona. The new park protected over 1.2 million acres of dramatic cliffs, plateaus, and the Colorado River. Conservationists and naturalists had long advocated for federal protection against mining and development. Establishing the park ensured the preservation of unique geological formations and Native American heritage sites. Grand Canyon quickly became an emblem of American wilderness conservation and a popular destination for generations of visitors.

On February 26, 1929, President Calvin Coolidge signed the Grand Teton National Park Act, protecting nearly 96,000 acres of the Teton Range and surrounding landscape. The park’s mountainous terrain, pristine alpine lakes, and diverse wildlife habitats were secured for public enjoyment and ecological preservation. Efforts by conservationists like John D. Rockefeller Jr. had raised funds to acquire land at risk of private development. The creation of Grand Teton National Park complemented the nearby Yellowstone National Park, forming a vast wilderness corridor. Today, the park remains a premier destination for hiking, mountaineering, and wildlife observation.

On February 26, 1971, U.N. Secretary-General U Thant signed a proclamation designating the vernal equinox as International Earth Day under the United Nations banner. The observance encouraged member states to recognize ecological protection, conservation, and sustainable development. Activities and events were organized worldwide to celebrate the planet's natural resources and biodiversity. U Thant's endorsement brought environmental issues into mainstream international policy discussions for the first time at the U.N. level. The proclamation laid the groundwork for future global environmental agreements and annual Earth Day celebrations. It highlighted the interconnectedness of nations in addressing pollution, habitat loss, and climate concerns.