Yosemite National Park was declared a protected area on June 30, 1864, with the passing of the famous Yosemite Grant. However, the history of the area dates back far before that important day.
In the days of early America, Yosemite was inhabited by Paiute and Sierra Miwok tribes. The California Gold Rush in the mid-nineteenth century brought settlers to the area in search of treasure. During this time, the Ahwahneechee moved to the Yosemite valley. They were regarded by both the Miwoks and white settlers to be extremely violent and territorial. The Miwok tribe dubbed them “yohhe’meti,” which translates to “they are killers.” From there, the term “yohhe’meti” developed into the modern name “Yosemite.” Eventually, the Ahwahneechee were either killed or captured and relocated to another area.
After the signing of the Yosemite Grant by Abraham Lincoln, the responsibility of the park changed hands from the state of California to the United States Army in 1891. By 1916, the National Park Service was founded and Yosemite’s care was transferred to their hands, where it remains today. Over the years, there have been several improvements, such as roads, picnic areas, and a dam. Yosemite remains one of America’s most beloved and fascinating national parks.
Jigsaw puzzle subject image credit: Special thanks to Rennett Stowe for making the photograph used for this jigsaw puzzle available through the Creative Commons Attribution license. Visit Rennett Stowe's Flickr photostream.
See all jigsaw puzzles based on Rennett Stowe's photographs.
Category: Landscapes
