American Zoos During the Depression: A New Deal for Animals

by Jesse C. Donahue, Erik K. Trump

Overview

American zoos flourished during the Great Depression, thanks to federal programs that enabled local governments to build new zoological parks, complete finished ones, and remodel outdated facilities. This historical text examines community leaders' successful advocacy for zoo construction in the context of poverty and widespread suffering, arguing that they provided employment, stimulated tourism, and democratized leisure. Of particular interest is the rise of the zoo professional, which paved the way for science and conservation agendas. The text explores the New Deal's profound impact on zoos and animal welfare and the legacy of its programs in zoos today.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780786449637
Publisher:	McFarland & Company, Incorporated Publishers
Publication date:	10/28/2010
Pages:	235
Product dimensions:	5.90(w) x 8.90(h) x 0.50(d)
Age Range:	18 Years

About the Author

Jesse C. Donahue is a professor of political science at Saginaw Valley State University in Michigan. Erik K. Trump is a professor in the political science department at Saginaw Valley State University in Michigan. This is their third book together on the politics and history of zoos in the United States.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments     
Preface     

1. Building the New Deal Zoo     
2. Who Ran the Zoo?     
3. Why Zoos?     
4. Why Snakes? The Spectacle and Science of Snakes     
5. A New Deal for Animal Welfare     
6. The Decline, Resurrection, and Legacy of New Deal Zoos     

Chapter Notes     
Bibliography     
Index