John Muir (1858-1914)

Life

• In his childhood, develops a belief in the nature and work. Would wake early in the morning to have time to himself to read 
• At 30, he traveled to Yosemite -- to see the "natural capitals of the world"
• Spends 6 almost uninterrupted years in the Sierra Mountains. He is a guide to many, including Emerson
• Emerson wants him to travel back East to teach, but Muir prefers to life in the natural life, to live the life that Emerson so passionately talked about living

Feelings about Nature

• Almost a holy reverence for the natural world -- "The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness"
• Belief that we should learn from nature -- "Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature's peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves." 
• Emphasized the study of emotional response to wild nature -- "Keep close to Nature's heart...and break clear away, once in awhile, and climb a mountain or spend a week in the woods. Wash your spirit clean."
• Belief that nature is best in untouched state-- that we should not control or manage nature, but experience it without leaving our traces. -- "In God's wildness lies the hope of the world - the great fresh unblighted, unredeemed wilderness. The galling harness of civilization drops off, and wounds heal ere we are aware." 

Impact

• My First Summer in the Sierras
• His efforts led the establishment of Yosemite National Park
• Founded the Sierra Club