March 1 in American History

March 1, 1872 — Yellowstone becomes the first national park

President Grant signed the law making Yellowstone the first national park in the United States — and in the world. The idea was genuinely new: that a nation would set aside a vast wilderness of geysers and canyons "for the benefit and enjoyment of the people," owned by everyone and no one. America invented the national park here.

Common Questions

What happened on March 1 in American history?

In 1872: Yellowstone becomes the first national park. President Grant signed the law making Yellowstone the first national park in the United States — and in the world.

Why is March 1 significant?

President Grant signed the law making Yellowstone the first national park in the United States — and in the world. The idea was genuinely new: that a nation would set aside a vast wilderness of geysers and canyons "for the benefit and enjoyment of the people," owned by everyone and no one. America invented the national park here.

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