Full Name and Common Aliases

John Burroughs, often referred to simply as Burroughs, was a prominent American naturalist and essayist. His work in the field of nature writing has earned him a place among the most quoted and celebrated figures in American literature.

Birth and Death Dates

John Burroughs was born on April 3, 1837, and he passed away on March 29, 1921. His life spanned a period of significant change in America, from the pre-Civil War era through the dawn of the 20th century.

Nationality and Profession(s)

Burroughs was an American by nationality. He was primarily known as a naturalist and essayist, but he also worked as a teacher and a federal bank examiner. His writings, however, are what cemented his legacy, as they captured the essence of the American wilderness and the human connection to nature.

Early Life and Background

John Burroughs was born in the rural Catskills of New York, in a small town called Roxbury. He was the seventh of ten children in a farming family. The natural beauty of the Catskills deeply influenced Burroughs from a young age, fostering a lifelong passion for the outdoors. Despite the limited educational resources available to him, Burroughs was an avid reader and showed an early interest in writing. His formative years were spent exploring the woods and fields around his home, experiences that would later inform his essays and observations on nature.

Major Accomplishments

Burroughs' major accomplishments lie in his prolific output as a writer and his ability to popularize nature writing in America. Over his lifetime, he published more than 30 books and numerous essays that appeared in prominent magazines of the time, such as The Atlantic Monthly and Harper's Magazine. His works were instrumental in shaping the American conservation movement, and he was a contemporary and friend of other notable figures such as Walt Whitman, Theodore Roosevelt, and John Muir.

Notable Works or Actions

Among Burroughs' most notable works are "Wake-Robin" (1871), his first collection of essays, and "Riverby" (1894), which detailed his observations of the natural world. His essay "The Art of Seeing Things" is particularly celebrated for its insight into the importance of observation and appreciation of nature. Burroughs was also known for his travels and writings about the natural landscapes of the United States, including the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone National Park. His ability to convey the beauty and complexity of these environments helped to raise public awareness and appreciation for America's natural heritage.

Impact and Legacy

John Burroughs' impact on American literature and environmental thought is profound. He is often credited with helping to establish the genre of nature writing in the United States. His essays not only celebrated the beauty of the natural world but also advocated for its preservation at a time when industrialization threatened many natural landscapes. Burroughs' legacy is preserved in the numerous nature sanctuaries and trails named in his honor, as well as in the continued relevance of his writings, which inspire readers to this day to engage with and protect the environment.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

John Burroughs is widely quoted and remembered for his eloquent and insightful observations on nature and the human experience. His ability to articulate the intricate relationship between humans and the natural world resonates with readers across generations. Burroughs' writings encourage a deeper appreciation for the environment and a recognition of the interconnectedness of all living things. His quotes often reflect a profound understanding of nature's beauty and complexity, making them timeless in their appeal and relevance. As a result, Burroughs remains a significant figure in both literary and environmental circles, celebrated for his contributions to the appreciation and preservation of the natural world.