This book is the first to explore the history of environmental patriotism, the belief that the national environment defines a country’s greatness. This significant strand in twentieth century American environmentalism is told through the intriguing stories of environmental patriots and the rhetoric of their speeches and propaganda.

Dr. Todd presents four case studies: the See America First movement, Gifford Pinchot and President Theodore Roosevelt’s White House Conservation Conference, Pittsburgh’s smoke investigation condemned the effects of coal smoke on the city’s environment. During World War II, a massive propaganda effort mobilized millions of Americans to plant victory gardens and save resources for the war abroad.

After World War II, national discourse shifted to a consumer patriotism that is at the root of current American apathy toward environmental issues. The book critiques contemporary environmentalists’ communication strategies and suggests a rhetorical framework to advocate for civic engagement and national action to address global environmental challenges.