Rachel Carson

The name Rachel Carson is well recognized in certain scientific, environmental and conservationist circles. She was a prominent writer, environmental conservationist, and biologist. Silent Springs, one of Carson's more recognized works, shed light on the negative consequences of insecticidal chemicals, specifically DDT. She was met with significant opposition from corporate interests when she suggested that the use of certain chemicals have negative health impacts and their persistence in the environment. Her book made possible the consolidation of an already existing environmental consciousness movement. It provided rallying point where environmentalists could push for environmental reforms and regulations. Even when diagnosed with cancer, Carson put on a face of strength and determination in the public scene to push for environmental conservation. The eventual result was the establishment of the U.S Environmental Protection Agency, which is one of the primary environmental regulatory bodies in the country.