American Zoos During the Depression: A New Deal for Animals

American Zoos During the Depression: A New Deal for Animals
ISBN-10
0786461861
ISBN-13
9780786461868
Category
History
Pages
235
Language
English
Published
2014-01-10
Publisher
McFarland
Authors
Jesse C. Donahue, Erik K. Trump

Description

American zoos flourished during the Great Depression, thanks to federal programs that enabled local governments to build new zoological parks, complete finished ones, and remodel outdated facilities. This historical text examines community leaders’ successful advocacy for zoo construction in the context of poverty and widespread suffering, arguing that they provided employment, stimulated tourism, and democratized leisure. Of particular interest is the rise of the zoo professional, which paved the way for science and conservation agendas. The text explores the New Deal’s profound impact on zoos and animal welfare and the legacy of its programs in zoos today.

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