David Ross Brower (July 1, 1912- November 5, 2000) is considered by many to be the father of the modern environmental movement. Beginning his career as a world-class mountaineer with more than 70 first ascents to his credit, he became the first executive director of the Sierra Club in 1952 and successfully fought to stop dams in Dinosaur National Monument and in Grand Canyon National Park. He led campaigns to establish 10 new national parks and seashores, including Point Reyes, the North Cascades and the Redwoods, and was instrumental in gaining passage of the Wilderness Act of 1964, which protects millions of acres of public lands in pristine condition.

He delivered his speech at the 12th Annual E.F. Schumacher Lectures in October 1992.

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