“Earth Day” - This Day in History – Apr 22nd

Earth Day is celebrated

Back in 1970, the first and soon to be annual tradition of Earth Day was celebrated in the United States.  This event which was the brainchild of Environmentalist and Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson, which involved millions of Americans whom attended rallies and marches from students at various colleges and universities.

According to history.com, Mr. Nelson, “hoped to provide unity to the grassroots environmental movement and increase ecological awareness. He stated that, "The objective was to get a nationwide demonstration of concern for the environment so large that it would shake the political establishment out of its lethargy," Senator Nelson said, "and, finally, force this issue permanently onto the national political agenda." Earth Day indeed increased environmental awareness in America, and in July of that year the Environmental Protection Agency was established by special executive order to regulate and enforce national pollution legislation.” 

“On April 22, 1990, the 20th anniversary of Earth Day, more than 200 million people in 141 countries participated in Earth Day celebrations."

"Earth Day has been celebrated on different days by different groups internationally. The United Nations officially celebrates it on the vernal equinox, which usually occurs about March 21.”

All History facts provided from the link below:

http://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/the-blues-brothers-make-their-world-premiere-on-saturday-night-live?catId=13