John was born in 1838. When he turned 11 years old, his family moved to the United States from Scotland. They began a new life in Wisconsin that year.
John showed his love of nature in his early years. He liked playing outdoors. He also loved working outdoors on his father's farm.
When he was 29, John had an accident at work. The accident hurt his eyes. As a result he missed looking at nature for months. Luckily, he could see again. Later that year, John decided to spend all his time learning about nature. He would travel in order to make his dream come true.
First. John hiked 1,000 miles. He studied plants and wildlife. He then took a trip by ship. It was to learn more about the world around him. In 1869, John went to the Sierra Nevada Mountains. He climbed the mountains and wrote down what he saw. And he wrote about the animals and plants as well. By the time John turned 33, people were reading what he had written. They realized the importance of nature from John's books. Many people understood and accepted his thoughts.
In 1852, John started the Sierra Club. Many people joined it. They agreed that forest wildlife should be protected. Today, the club has more than two million members. It has a great influence on the people who love nature. They all help spread the ways to protect the environment.
John's books are still read today. He is famous for his love of nature.
