Thesis Statement
In the 20th century, pioneering conservationist Rachel Carson (1907-64) gave the environment a voice. A biologist and writer who was passionate about nature, she staunchly opposed the use of certain pesticides. Although a quiet woman, her leadership and powerful writing, including 1962 best seller "Silent Spring," helped spur the modern day environmental movement, encouraged the ban of DDT and other highly toxic chemicals, and her legacy includes aiding the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency.