The Animals 1850–1950: A Century of Change and Conservation

The period between 1850 and 1950 was a pivotal century for the animal kingdom, marked by rapid industrialization, global expansion, and dramatic shifts in our relationship with wildlife. From the relentless pursuit of exotic game to the first stirrings of a global conservation movement, this era witnessed both the deepest lows and the earliest glimmers of hope for the world’s creatures. This blog post explores the significant events, scientific discoveries, and cultural shifts that defined how animals were perceived, treated, and ultimately, protected during this transformative 100-year span.

The Gilded Age of Exploitation (1850–1900)

The latter half of the 19th century was a time of unprecedented human impact on the planet. The Industrial Revolution had reached its zenith, fueling a demand for raw materials and a new class of wealthy individuals seeking to display their status. This led to a boom in activities that had devastating consequences for animal populations.

1. The Age of the Great Hunters: The late 19th century saw the rise of the “great white hunter” archetype. Individuals like Teddy Roosevelt, though later a proponent of conservation, participated in large-scale big-game hunts in Africa and North America. These expeditions, often documented in books and newspapers, glorified the killing of majestic animals like elephants, lions, and rhinos. The motivation was a mix of sport, scientific collection for museums, and a quest for adventure. This culture of hunting contributed to the significant decline of many species.

2. The Plight of the American Bison: The story of the American bison is a stark example of this era’s destruction. Once numbering in the tens of millions, they were hunted to the brink of extinction. This was driven by a combination of factors:

• Commercial hunting for hides and meat, which were transported east via the new railroad networks.
• Government policy aimed at starving out Native American tribes who depended on the bison for survival.

By the end of the century, fewer than a thousand bison remained. This near-total eradication was a wake-up call for early conservationists.

3. The Millinery Trade and the Feather Wars: The fashion industry of the Victorian era had a voracious appetite for exotic feathers. Birds like egrets, herons, and even flamingos were slaughtered in massive numbers to adorn women’s hats. This led to the creation of the first organized animal protection groups, primarily led by women who were horrified by the cruelty and waste. The Audubon Society, founded in 1905, was a direct response to this crisis, advocating for legislation to protect migratory birds.

The Dawn of Conservation (1900–1950

As the 20th century began, a new consciousness emerged. Scientists, naturalists, and a growing public started to recognize that the planet’s resources, including its wildlife, were finite. This era marked a shift from mere exploitation to a more structured, scientific approach to conservation.

1. The Rise of National Parks and Reserves: The establishment of protected areas became a cornerstone of conservation efforts. The concept, pioneered in the late 19th century with Yellowstone National Park (1872), gained traction. The early 20th century saw the creation of more parks, and critically, the implementation of laws to protect the wildlife within them.

• Lacey Act (1900): This U.S. law was a landmark piece of legislation that made it a federal crime to transport illegally hunted wildlife across state lines. It was a crucial blow to the commercial poaching industry.
• National Park Service (1916): The formal establishment of this agency provided a coordinated framework for managing and protecting these vast natural spaces.

2. The Influence of Scientific Thought: The field of ecology began to develop in this period, with scientists like Aldo Leopold laying the groundwork for modern wildlife management. Leopold’s concept of a “land ethic” – the idea that humans have a moral responsibility to the natural world – was revolutionary. His writings, including A Sand County Almanac (1949), remain foundational texts for environmentalism.

3. The Zoos and Menageries Transform: In the 19th century, zoos were often little more than menageries—collections of animals displayed in cramped, barren cages. By the mid-20th century, the focus began to shift towards education and, eventually, conservation. Zoos started to create more naturalistic habitats, and their role as breeding centers for endangered species began to be recognized. This marked a slow but important evolution from pure entertainment to a mission of preservation.

The Cultural and Social Context

The perception of animals was also changing in the broader culture.

• Animals in Media: The emergence of cinema allowed for a new visual relationship with animals. Documentaries and nature films, though often still romanticized, brought the lives of wild animals into people’s homes, fostering empathy.
• The Domesticated Companion: The role of the pet also evolved. With the rise of the suburbs and smaller families, dogs and cats were increasingly seen not just as working animals but as cherished members of the family. The first formalized dog and cat shows, and the establishment of kennel clubs, reflected this growing cultural bond.

The Legacy of a Century

By 1950, the world was a different place. While many species had been lost or were critically endangered, the seeds of a global conservation movement had been planted. The century from 1850 to 1950 serves as a powerful lesson: it highlights humanity’s immense capacity for both destruction and redemption. The challenges faced during this time—the conflict between economic growth and environmental preservation—are still relevant today. The animals of this era were not just victims; their struggle galvanized a movement that continues to fight for their survival, a legacy we are all responsible for carrying forward.