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 Dare to Explore: How the Founding of the National Geographic Society Changed the Scientific Community ForeverHarper HooverJunior DivisionIndividual PerformanceProcess Paper: 499 wordsProcess PaperWhile trying to think of topics that fit this year’s theme of Exploration, Encounter and Exchange in History, I began to think of people, places and events that were worldwide and resulted in an exchange of culture or knowledge. The National Geographic Society almost immediately came to mind as I begin to think about the magazine’s coverage of world science, culture and history. I decided to narrow my topic down to the beginning decade of the Society (1888-1920) in order to dig deeper into a smaller time frame.I began my research by constructing a timeline composed of the events during my time period. I chose the important people and events to revolve my project around, and used several sources for each sub-topic of my research, in order to make sure the information was correct and consistent throughout all of my sources. I relied on the Library of Congress and Chronicling America to find the majority of my primary sources. I received access to an entire collection of National Geographic Magazines at a local library. The most helpful primary source location was at the National Geographic Archives, where I was given a tour in person and did research there. For my secondary sources, I found books, radio podcasts and internet articles. I interviewed two of National Geographic’s archivists, as well as a professor who recently participated in a National Geographic-funded expedition. I also attended a lecture by a National Geographic reporter. Choosing a performance was a simple decision for me because I have the most experience in that category. I chose to portray multiple characters in my performance to represent the different time periods of the society’s history and to show a variety of viewpoints on National Geographic. The three women I portray show very different sides of the Society’s members, from working women to wives to leaders of today.The National Geographic Society relates to the National History Day theme in many ways. The society has funded many expeditions that explored new lands and heights of the world. These include exploring Mount Saint Elias, the second highest point in Canada; reaching the North Pole in 1909; exploring the ancient ruins in Machu Picchu; and countless more expeditions throughout the 20th century. The magazine explored new techniques of photography and was innovative in aspects other publications were not. Without the exploration the Society has done, the journalism, scientific and technological fields would not have progressed so far in a relatively short amount of time. The National Geographic Society encountered new information about geography and life science through the members’ research and journeys. They encountered lands, species of organisms and civilizations no one knew about. The National Geographic magazine exchanges knowledge with its readers through its storytelling, while the explorers of society exchange cultures with the foreign people they work with around the world. National Geographic has brought the ends of the worlds together by exploring new lands, encountering new information and exchanging their knowledge with others around the world.Annotated BibliographyPrimary:Books:Bingham, Hiram, “Inca Land: Explorations in the Highlands of Peru” Boston, MA: Houghton Mifflin, 1922.Hiram Bingham records his explorations of Machu Picchu, the famous Inca ruins. This expedition was funded by the Society and featured in the magazine, and was an important event in their history. The book helped me to learn about the expedition and the Society’s first archaeological dig.Grosvenor, Gilbert Hovey, “Scenes from Every Land” Washington D.C.: National Geographic Society, 1907.Grosvenor, who was editor at the time, published this collection of the Society’s prints and photographs. The pictures and introduction taught me about the photographers’ responsibilities, what they encounter around the world and the importance of photography to the Society.Peary, Robert, “The North Pole: Its discovery in 1909 under the auspices of the Peary Arctic” New York, NY: Frederick A. Stokes Company, 1910.The book explains Peary’s many Arctic journeys to the North Pole. His expedition of 1908 was funded by the National Geographic Society and this book gave me insight to how the Society helped him to carry out his explorations.Scidmore, Eliza Ruhamah, “Winter India: Travel and Adventures of an American Woman in the India of the Raf” New York, NY: Century Company, 1903.Eliza Scidmore, a National Geographic member and contributor, wrote this book about her journeys to several places in Asia and what she learned there. This book gave me insight to her life, and the work she did with the Society.Correspondence:Bell, Alexander Graham, “Letter from Alexander Graham Bell to Elsie Bell Grosvenor” October 15, 1897. Alexander Graham Bell Family Papers, 1834-1974.Alexander writes his daughter to tell her what’s going on with the National Geographic Society and the Smithsonian Institute. This letter helped me learn about the events at the time, and about everything that Alexander Graham Bell was involved in, including the Society. Bell, Alexander Graham, “Letter from Alexander Graham Bell to Gilbert H. Grosvenor” February 3, 1909. Alexander Graham Bell Family Papers, 1834-1974.Grosvenor and Bell write to each other discussing Gilbert’s work with the magazine, the success he’s had and the struggles he is still going through. Bell gives him praise and advice; it helped me learn about Grosvenor’s work and the feedback he got from it.Bell, Alexander Graham, “Letter from Alexander Graham Bell to Gilbert H.Grosvenor” May 23, 1912. Alexander Graham Bell Family Papers, 1834-1974.The letter between the editor and president of the Society showed me the relationship between Alexander and his son-in-law/colleague. They talked about some of the common duties they perform for the Society. Bell, Alexander Graham, “ Letter from Alexander Graham Bell to Mabel Hubbard Bell” November 18, 1899. Alexander Graham Bell Family Papers, 1834-1974.Alexander writes his wife about his most recent work with the Society, including his meeting with the Board. He also mentions Gilbert, how much progress he is making with the magazine, and all of the knowledge and vision he has for it.Bell, Mabel Hubbard, “Letter from Mabel Hubbard Bell to Alexander Graham Bell” March 12, 1896. Alexander Graham Bell Family Papers, 1834-1974.Mabel writes Alexander about the previous night’s Society reception, including who spoke, and what Mabel did during the night. This letter gave me more information about the Society’s early members and the activities they held.Bell, Mabel Hubbard, “Letter from Mabel Hubbard Bell to Alexander Graham Bell” May 10, 1898. Alexander Graham Bell Family Papers, 1834-1974.Mabel tells her husband, “I must tell you of the Cuban “lecture” at the Geographic today.” She then goes on to describe the program she thought was so interesting. This gave me insight on the lectures the Society held and how they held talks to share knowledge with their members.Grosvenor, Elsie Bell, “Letter from Elsie Bell Grosvenor to Alexander Graham Bell” May 11, 1899. Alexander Graham Bell Family Papers, 1834-1974.In this letter, Elsie updates her father on the current status of her and her family. This source helped me learn about what was going on in the lives of important people in National Geographic. This also helped me learn more about Elsie and her life, which was helpful since I will be portraying her in my performance. Grosvenor, Gilbert Hovey, “Letter from Gilbert Hovey Grosvenor to Alexander Graham Bell” January 2, 1904. Alexander Graham Bell Family Papers, 1834-1974.In this letter, Grosvenor, the editor of the National Geographic Magazine at the time, writes Alexander Graham Bell, who is on the Board of Regents of the Smithsonian Institute, about the possibility of the Smithsonian Institute publishing a newspaper, much like the National Geographic Society’s magazine, in order for the Institute to share its knowledge with its followers through reliable sources and weekly news updates. This helped me learn about Grosvenor’s wants for other institutes to expand and follow in the Society’s footsteps. Grosvenor, Gilbert Hovey, “Letter from Gilbert Hovey Grosvenor to Alexander Graham Bell” December 1, 1905. Alexander Graham Bell Family Papers, 1834-1974.Grosvenor writes Bell about his ideas for an upcoming magazine edition and some improvements they could make to add humor to the magazine. This letter and some of their other correspondences gave me a look into the thought process of the president of the Society and the editor of the magazine and what their responsibilities were.Grosvenor, Gilbert Hovey, “Letter from Gilbert Hovey Grosvenor to Alexander Graham Bell” February 1, 1910. Alexander Graham Bell Family Papers, 1834-1974.Grosvenor writes Alexander to inform him that Gilbert cannot serve in his committee for the newly formed association for the deaf (AAPTSD), but goes on to talk about his experience with the Society. He mentions the Society’s competitors and how they’ve failed to keep up with the National Geographic. This helped me learn more about the success of Grosvenor and Bell’s work with the Society.Grosvenor, Gilbert Hovey, “Letter from Gilbert Hovey Grosvenor to Alexander Graham Bell” June 11, 1912. Alexander Graham Family Papers, 1834-1974.The two men here wrote about the dues that had been paid by members and the statistics of member numbers throughout the years. The rise and fall of membership was significant in some cases and gave me insight as to the members of the Society and how many of them were loyal or on-off members. Grosvenor, Gilbert Hovey, “Letter from Gilbert Hovey Grosvenor to John D. Whiting” November 2, 1915. American Colony in Jerusalem Collection. Grosvenor wrote Whiting about the article and photographs that Whiting sent him from his recent assignment in Palestine. Grosvenor says his article will probably be published in the December issue. This gave me insight into Grosvenor’s thoughts in what to publish and how he communicated with his staff who worked across the globe. Hubbard, Gardiner Greene, “Letter from Gardiner Greene Hubbard to Alexander Graham Bell” July 2, 1895. Alexander Graham Family Papers, 1834-1974.Gardiner wrote Bell to update him on the most recent National Geographic Society meeting, and to inform him on who had been voted as a delegate. This source helped me to picture what the meetings were like, who was important in them and what these two men talked about in regards to the Society.Hubbard, Gardiner Greene and others, Invitation, January 10, 1888. Excerpt from National Geographic Magazine, Vol. 1, 1888. This invitation was written by a group of five men including Gardiner Greene Hubbard regarding the meeting they were going to conduct at the Cosmos Club about creating the National Geographic Society. I found the text and authors of this invitation in the first issue of the National Geographic Magazine. This helped me further develop information about the Society’s beginnings.McCurdy, John A. D., “Photograph, February 24, 1909” February 24, 1909. Alexander Graham Bell Family Papers, 1834-1974.John McCurdy sent Alexander Graham Bell, current Society president, a photograph of his plane before it left on its expedition to fly over Canada. He also included a letter giving brief explanation of his expedition and what he accomplished.Film:Bitzer, G.W., camera, Departure of Peary [and the] “Roosevelt” from New York American Mutoscope and Biograph Company: 1905.The film shows Robert Peary leaving the harbor on his ship named after President Roosevelt. He leaves, headed for the North Pole, on this expedition funded by the National Geographic Society.Journals:Bell, Alexander Graham, “Beinn Bhreagh Recorder” July 24, 1909 to October 19, 1909. Alexander Graham Bell Family Papers, 1834-1974. Alexander Graham Bell wrote this journal while he was in his Beinn Bhreagh house in Nova Scotia. One of the many topics he wrote about was the National Geographic Society, and I read those pages in order to gain a better understanding of his leadership as the president.Bell, Alexander Graham, “Journal by Alexander Graham Bell” November 7, 1901 to April 29, 1902. Alexander Graham Bell Family Papers 1834-1974. Alexander Graham Bell writes about his thoughts and events in his life through these two dates. I used the sections where he talked about the National Geographic Society, including things like their meetings, correspondence and progressive movement. Bell, Alexander Graham, “Journal by Alexander Graham Bell” January 20, 1910 toMarch 14, 1910. Alexander Graham Bell Family Papers 1834-1974. This journal tells about more of the meetings and work of the Society, the magazine’s ongoing changes and how Bell has put his trust in Grosvenor, the editor. Alexander also writes about his contributions to the Society and the responsibilities of his leadership position. Magazines:“National Geographic Magazine, Vol. 1, No. 1” 1888: National Geographic Society, Washington, D.C.The first issue of the National Geographic magazine included articles by multiple members of the Society talking mainly about geography, with no photographs and not much information other than geography. “National Geographic Magazine, Vol. 1, No. 2” 1889: National Geographic Magazine, Washington D.C.The second issue of the National Geographic includes articles of geography, along with diagrams and maps. The special for the issue is the history and future of Africa, which makes up a great part of the issue, uses many visuals, and shows the progress National Geographic is making by showing more than just geography.“National Geographic Magazine, Vol. 11, No. 1” 1900: National Geographic Magazine, Washington D.C.The magazine is still similar to the first few issues, in that the articles are very lengthy and the magazine often goes several pages without illustrations. The visuals used include some photographs, but mostly maps and charts. The magazine does not talk solely about North American discoveries, but does not cover many worldwide discoveries yet. However, the magazine looks much more like a modern day magazine than the first two issues did. “National Geographic Magazine, Vol. 21, No. 1” 1910: National Geographic Magazine, Washington D.C.Twelve years after the first issue, the magazine has completely changed, having photographs on every other page, telling of expeditions around the country, and showing the true talent of editing that Grosvenor possesses. Seeing one of the magazine from his era as an editor helped me understand more about Grosvenor, and about how much the magazine changes in such a short amount of time. “National Geographic Magazine, Vol. 37, No. 1” 1920: National Geographic Magazine, Washington D.C.This issue of the magazine is at the end of my time period of research, and continues to improve from the issue before it. The photographs are in better focus and are taken from villages and cultures all over the world. The magazine is covering stories about places far from the United States, showing how the magazine is becoming global. These magazines have helped me see the progress that the magazine has made and how influential the different editors were on the magazine.“National Geographic Magazine, Vol. 53, No. 4” 1928: National Geographic Magazine, Washington D.C.This issue of the magazine, while out of my time period, features a series of autochrome photographs of Europe that were taken during my time period. The magazine showed the innovative vision of the editor and how big the role of photography was in the magazine. I used the physical copy of the magazine as a prop.Newspapers:“A Glimpse of Chinese Life in Canton and Hong Kong” Evening Star, March 8, 1890.The article describes the most recent meeting of the National Geographic Society, where the main subject was a report from China given by speaker Romyn Hitchcock. He told the members about his findings on his recent trips to China and Hong Kong. This article gave me insight to what the early National Geographic Society meetings were like, and how the members encountered different lifestyles and cultures around the world.“Ask Danes to Waive Right to Cook Data” Evening Star, October 15, 1909.As pressure on Robert Peary grew to turn in his proof of reaching the North Pole, the National Geographic sent a cablegram to the University of Copenhagen saying they need time to figure out if Peary’s calculations were correct and if he truly reached the North Pole.“Bell to Test His New Kite” The Washington Post, April 9, 1904.This article was a clipping that was saved by Alexander Graham Bell’s family. It talks about his upcoming display of his kite to the National Geographic Society. This was one of the many ways the Society brought people together and served as a place to exchange ideas.“Eskimos Dance New Variety of Bear” The Day Book, February 5, 1914.The article explains how a member of the National Geographic Society, in one of his expeditions to the northern boreal regions, found that a popular dance craze had spread to their village as well. This shows the exchange of culture that the National Geographic Society discovered and shared.“In Honor of Taft” Evening Star, December 21, 1905.The night before this article was published (October 20, 1905), President Taft and the First Lady were the honorary members of the National Geographic meeting. This shows how important the Society became so soon, for the President of the United States came to a meeting of theirs! The article followed the events of the night.“National Geographic Society” Evening Star, January 28, 1888.This article appeared on the front page of the Evening Star on the day after the Society was officially founded. The article describes the three meetings that were held regarding this decision of founding the Society, and the purpose of the Society. It listed the men in the leadership positions, as well as the fact that there were about 125 original members of the National Geographic Society.“National Geographic Society” Evening Star, June 30, 1912.The article describes the brief history of the National Geographic Society, and how it is the most successful scientific society in D.C. It explains the contributions of Bell, Grosvenor and how far the Society has come. The article helped me learn about the most important people and accomplishments of the Society.“New Home Soon Ready for the Geographic Society” Evening Star, September 20, 1913.The National Geographic Society is having a new memorial hall built named after its first president, Gardiner Greene Hubbard. The Society is going to move into this space very soon and the construction project was a huge one for the Society. The article talks about the beginnings of the Society and how the current circulation of the magazine and membership of the Society are both at 225,000.“Noted Twins Are Rivals in a Keen Mental Race” The Washington Herald, June 28, 1914.This article highlights Edwin and Gilbert Grosvenor and how similar yet different their lives were. Gilbert, by this time, had already achieved a lot with the Society, and this story highlighted his accomplishments. The article gave me lots of information about the editor of the magazine and his work. “Peary’s Record Sent to Society” Yellowstone Monitor, October 28, 1909. This article talks about the recent record that Robert Peary set and how he claimed to reach the North Pole. Many people did not believe he actually reached the North Pole, so they questioned the Society if it was actually true. This article explains the debate going on and how the Society is going to review the information about his journey as soon as they get it, and then make a conclusion based off of that.“The Mechanical Side of Sending Educational Messages from Washington” Evening Star, March 27, 1921.This page of the newspaper was full of pictures and captions, most of them from the National Geographic Magazine offices. These pictures depicted the work that is required to write and publish their magazines. Although this is the slightest bit outside of my timeline, these photographs and captions helped me to understand what went into creating each issue of the magazine in the later part of my timeline.“The National Geographic Society” The Washington Critic, January 28, 1888.This part of the newspaper was not so much of an article, but a paragraph announcing the newly formed National Geographic Society a day after it was founded. The announcement shares the news and also lists the men that were most influential in the founding.“Tribute To Peary” Evening Star, December 16, 1909.On the annual banquet of the National Geographic Society in 1909, there was a busy agenda. This rather lengthy article recalls the events of the banquet including presenting medals to Robert Perry, who was known as the ‘discoverer of the pole.’ Members of the Society read telegrams congratulating Peary written by President Roosevelt, Charles Darwin, members of the Berlin Geographic Society, and several ambassadors and dukes from Europe. This was the best attended banquet the Society had hosted since its beginning. Haskin, Frederic J., “Geographical Research” Evening Star, December 29, 1910.This article talks about upcoming events involving many of the geographical organizations including the National Geographic Society. It also recalls the past year, and how it was so successful for these groups and explorers. The author talks about the recent explorations including Peary’s journey to the North Pole, which was sponsored by the National Geographic Society.Paintings:Meltzoff, Stanley, National Geographic Society, Oil on canvas, 1962. The painting depicts several men gathered around a table in a hall. It represents the meeting on January 13, 1888 that sprouted the idea of the National Geographic Society. This is not only a beautiful work of art, but helped me to better imagine the founding of the Society.Photographs:Elsie May and Gilbert H. Grosvenor 1902.This portrait is of Elsie, Gilbert and their son, Melville. It taught me more about Gilbert’s personal life and I used the portrait as a prop in my performance.Bingham, Hiram, Machu Picchu Peru, 1912.Hiram Bingham found the Inca ruins Machu Picchu in 1912 and took this photograph of it. Later, the Society funded an excavation of the ruins. I used this photograph as a prop in my performance.Ewing and Harris, Group Stands on Steps of National Geographic Society Washington D.C., 1924. Contributed by Ewing and Harris. This photograph shows seven men standing on the steps leading up to the headquarters of National Geographic Society. This source helped me to see what the headquarters looked like and some of the most important men in the Society at that time. E.H. Butler and Co., Topographic Map of North America, 1888. This was the first photograph published in the National Geographic Magazine. The topographic map was taken in 1888 using halftone technology and earlier published in a geography textbook, “Butler’s Complete Geography.” Though it was taken in 1888, the picture was not published in the magazine until 1889.Guillumette, Paul G., A Ghent Flower Garden, 1914.This photograph was the first true color photograph published in the July 1914 issue of the National Geographic Magazine. The photograph had nothing to do with the surrounding article, but the picture alone was a feat for the magazine, as color photography was only seven years old and was still a complicated and tedious process to carry out. I used it as a prop.Peary, Robert, Peary Arctic Expedition, 1909.This is a photograph of the men in the crew of Robert Peary standing beside the American flag at the North Pole. While they were an estimated 30-60 miles away from the actual North Pole, this was a very important event in the Society’s history because this was the first big expedition that the Society had funded. I used this photograph as a prop.Russian Geographical Society, Photos taken in Lhasa, Tibet, n.d.These photographs made up the first photographic collection that was printed in a National Geographic Magazine in the 1904 issue. Grosvenor, the editor, found he need to fill a few more pages for his issue, so he sent for pictures that were shared with the magazine from the Imperial Russian Geographical Society, and filled the pages with the pictures. Grosvenor feared he might be fired because of this, but was actually praised for making a bold decision that turned out well. I used two of these pictures as props.Shiras, George III, Deer jumping in the night, 1906.This photograph was part of a collection of 74 photographs by George Shiras that were published by Gilbert H. Grosvenor in the July 1906 issue of the National Geographic Magazine. These photographs were important because they were the first wildlife photographs that the magazine published and they were nighttime photographs. I used this as a prop.Political Cartoons:North Pole controversy, September 19, 1909. France: Le Petit Journal.This political cartoon depicts Robert Peary and Frederick Cook physically fighting over placing their flag at the North Pole. It helped me to understand their battle of claiming to reach the pole first, and also how the matter, and the Society’s work, was universal, as it was in a French journal.Glackens, L.M., Take the belt, old sport!, 1909. N.Y.: Keppler and Schwarzmann.This political cartoon depicts Robert Peary in a wrestling ring, with a heavyweight competitor handing him the champion’s belt, saying, “Take the belt, old sport! We can’t any of us talk in your class.” This was meant to represent the people on Peary’s side of the North Pole argument, which the National Geographic played a large role in. Secondary:Books:Abrams, Harry M., “The National Geographic Society: 100 Years of Adventure and Discovery” Harry M. Abrams, 1997.This book covers the exciting and extensive history of the National Geographic Society, from its founding, through the creation of its magazine, until the one hundredth anniversary in 1988. It talks about the many scientists and explorers who shaped the history of the Society and how the magazines innovative ideas changed photojournalism forever. The book also explains the details of many well-known expeditions, most which gave the Society its fame. Bendavid-Val, Leah, "National Geographic: The Photographers" Washington D.C.: National Geographic Society, 1994. The photographers of the National Geographic Magazine changed the course of photojournalism with their breath-taking and record-breaking photographs that brought the wonders of other worlds to the citizens of the United States of America. This book helped me to learn about the individual photographers, their lives, and their most famous photographs. Buxbaum, Edwin C., “Collector’s Guide to the National Geographic Magazine” Wilmington, DE: Edwin C. Buxbaum, 1962.An ultimate guide to the National Geographic Society and Magazine, this book tells the brief history of National Geographic from its founding until the date of the book. This book was helpful to learn about the history of the Society, but also about the individual authors, stories, issues and expeditions of the magazine. Livingston, Jane, "Odyssey: The Art of Photography at National Geographic" Charlottesville, VA: Thomasson-Grant Inc., 1998 Thomasson-Grant Inc., Charlottesville, Virginia. The history of the photography branch at National Geographic is long and illustrious, filled with incredible firsts and photographs that have captured the curiosity of its readers worldwide. This book explains the National Geographic Society history and tells the story of all of the extraordinary things that the photography branch has done. Kane, Dennis B., “Running with the Wind: My Adventures with the National Geographic Society” Bloomington, IN: AuthorHouse, 2013.Dennis B. Kane is an acclaimed director who has won many Emmys and television awards for his work with National Geographic. His book recounts his work with them as Vice-President and Director of Television, as well as his countless adventures around the world.Newhouse, Elizabeth L., “Unlocking the Secrets of the Unknown with National Geographic” Washington D.C.: The National Geographic Society, 1993. This book describes the exploration of National Geographic discoveries like Machu Picchu, Rwanda, Tibet, the Galapagos Islands and foreign places that the National Geographic magazine showed America.Poole, Robert M., “Explorers House: National Geographic and the World it Made” Westminster, London: Penguin Press, 2004.This book gives insightful information about the founding members and influential leaders of the early society such as Gardiner Greene Hubbard, Alexander Graham Bell and their families. This really helped me learn more in-depth information about the creation of and important members behind the Society. Rothenburg, Tamar Y., “Presenting America’s World: Strategies of Innocence in National Geographic Magazine, 1888-1945” England: International Bibliography of the Social Sciences, 2007.This book analyzes how National Geographic has portrayed the world in its magazine through years 1888-1945. The author also showcases some of the most influential writers, photographers and editors who were a turning point for the magazine’s history. This book was very helpful because its information fits in a similar timeline of my research.Exhibits:“Invisible Boundaries: Exploring Yellowstone’s Great Animal Migrations” National Geographic Headquarters, 1145, NW 17th Street, Washington D.C., Visited May 24, 2016.This exhibit described the migration of animals, in particular, the animals native to Yellowstone National Park. I learned about the work National Geographic does with wildlife, and I also saw some of Charlie Hamilton James’ photographs displayed there, who I previously saw in his lecture.“National Geographic Into Africa: The Photography of Frans Lanting” National Museum of Natural History, 10th Street and Constitution Ave., Washington D.C., Visited May 24, 2016.The exhibit, which I visited in person, described Lanting’s work with National Geographic and how it impact the fields of photography and wildlife conservation. I saw many of his beautiful photographs and gained insight on how his work through National Geographic impacted the world.Internet Articles:“Eliza Ruhamah Scidmore” A Great Blooming, n.d., Accessed November 11, 2015. Eliza Scidmore was known for her work with the cherry blossom trees and her travels to Japan, but she was also a photographer, journalist, and travel writer. She was the first woman to serve on the Board of Managers of the National Geographic Society, after she became a Society member in 1890. She also wrote many articles for the magazine and worked closely with Editor Gilbert H. Grosvenor. “Gilbert Hovey Grosvenor” Omics International, n.d., Accessed November 16, 2015.Gilbert Grosvenor, ‘The Father of Journalism,’ was born on October 28, 1875. He was most known for his work with the National Geographic Society as president, director, and editor of the magazine. He was innovative in his photography publishing. He is one of the people credited as having the greatest impact on the Society. “History of the National Geographic Society” Gale Cengage Learning, n.d., Accessed February 2, 2016.The National Geographic Society was founded over the course of three weeks and three meetings where the founding members discussed their ideas for the upcoming society. It was made official on January 27. The magazine began later that year and was a big tool in bringing this information to a multitude of people. It developed into a photographic achievement once it started to make photography its main focus. “Machu Picchu Discovered” , Last modified 2009, Accessed November 19, 2015. Machu Picchu was found by Hiram Bingham in 1911. He was traveling through through the countryside of Cuzco, when he ran across some local who told him about these ruins. He found them on July 24, 1911, and when he showed the National Geographic Society, they decided to support him and fund their first archaeological dig through years 1913-1915.“National Geographic and the U.S. National Parks” National Geographic, n.d., Accessed November 21, 2015.The article explains the relationship between the Society and the National Parks. They have had many related opportunities where they have worked together and have formed a peaceful bond together. One of the first collaborations they had was when the Society purchased a deed of land and gave it to the Parks Services to protect the land’s trees in 1916.“National Geographic Milestones” National Geographic, Last modified September 2014, Accessed October 21, 2015. The National Geographic Society has done extraordinary feats throughout its history and this website explains these feats through a timeline organized by eras. It helped me understand the standout events that happened in each era, and helped me to narrow down my timeframe by deciding which era was a good stopping point, as I only want to explain the beginning era of the Society. “National Geographic 125 Facts” National Geographic, Last modified 2013, Accessed November 6, 2015.This source was a timeline that outlined the important events and details about the National Geographic Society through the 125 years that it has been operating. This source gave me many useful facts and lots of information about the many different aspects of the Society.“Robert Peary” United States History, n.d., Accessed November 3, 2015.Robert Peary was an explorer who spent decades determined to be the first man to reach the North Pole. After many attempts where he came very close but fell short, he finally reached what at the time he thought was the North Pole in 1909. This final expedition was sponsored by National Geographic, so learning about its various expeditions helped me learn about the exploration the Society helped Robert Peary with. Alvarez, Stephanie, “National Geographic Timeline” National Geographic, n.d., Accessed September 23, 2015.The National Geographic Society funded explorations that marked important discoveries in history. Some of these include the Robert Peary journey to the North Pole, the excavation of the Inca city in Machu Picchu, the flight over the South Pole, Jane Goodall’s work with chimpanzees, and many more. This timeline helped me to focus on the important discoveries explorers made through the magazine. Editors of Encyclopedia Britannica, “Eliza Ruhamah Scidmore” Encyclopedia Britannica, Last modified November 11, 2015, Accessed November 11, 2015.Eliza Scidmore was a writer, photographer and journalist who worked closely with the National Geographic Society and served in many positions to them. She is most known for her work in Japan, and she was the first person to petition to have cherry blossom trees planted in the capital. Foster, Beth, “Evolution of National Geographic Magazine” National Geographic Press, Last modified June 2012, Accessed September 24, 2015.The National Geographic Magazine was founded in October 1888 by the National Geographic Society. The history of the magazine was divided into eras such as the early era, the black-and-white photography era, the era of many first discoveries, the color photography era, and so forth through the 20th century and into the 21st. This source helped me to gain an understanding of my topic and gave me sub-topics to explore.Henderson, Bruce, “Who Discovered the North Pole?” Smithsonian, Last modified April 2009, Accessed February 25, 2016.This article shares the facts and evidence of two explorers’ claim to the North Pole. Robert Peary was sponsored by National Geographic, but in looking at his evidence many years later, the Society concluded he was most likely short of reaching the Pole. Nonetheless, he set journey records and explored undiscovered lands.Hunter, Cathy, “National Geographic Founders” National Geographic, Last modified December 2012, Accessed November 22, 2015. There were 33 men who originally founded the National Geographic Society in 1888 and this collection of posts about the men gives a brief history and description of who they were and what they did, along with their accomplishments. Many of them were scientists, geographers, cartographers and explorers, but also lawyers and teachers. Newman, Cathy, “Women of Vision: The Pioneers” National Geographic, Last modified October 9, 2013, Accessed October 19, 2015. In this article, the author highlights many of the impactful women in the National Geographic history, such as Dorothy Hosmer, Eliza Ruhamah Scidmore, Harriet Chalmers Adams, and others. This source helped me a lot in learning about the unsung women who worked for the National Geographic. It also gave me information about how the National Geographic Magazine treated these women explorers and photographers. Raasch, Chuck, “National Geographic: Pioneer in Exploration” USA Today, Last modified January 7, 2013, Accessed November 12, 2015.This article explains the brief history of National Geographic, and how they explored many unknown corners of the earth and changed the world of science and cultures. The writer of this article interviewed Society Chairman and CEO John Fahley, so several of his thoughts about the Society are worked into the text. Wallach, Laura, “NGS Celebrates 23rd Founders Day” National Geographic, Last modified May 26, 2011, Accessed March 25, 2016.A hundred years after the founding of the Society, a ‘Founder’s Day’ was created to honor the founders and staff of the National Geographic. This article recounts the founding of the Society and the dedicated work the people did, as well as who they were and their contributions to the scientific community. Interviews:Buckley-Cerka, Karen, Interview by author, Phone, April 22, 2016.Karen Buckley-Cerka currently works as the video archivist for the National Geographic Society. She gave me insight to how the National Geographic videos have impacted their history and how the Society was so innovative in its use of technology throughout history. Hunter, Cathy, Interview by author, Email, February 4, 2016.Cathy Hunter is the senior archivist at National Geographic, and gave me insight on the early impact of the Society on America. She told me how the Society brought adventure and new information to its readers and fans. Lintz, David, Interview by author, Personal, February 16, 2016.David Lintz is the Director of the Red Man Museum and Library. This library has a full collection of the National Geographic magazines. I was able to visit and use this collection for reference. Mr. Lintz also explained why having a National Geographic collection is such a novelty and how this collection is special to their library and their visitors. Schubert, Keith, Interview by author, Personal, April 25, 2016.Keith Schubert is an electrical and computer engineering professor at Baylor University. In 2013-14 he participated in a National Geographic-sponsored expedition in Mexico, and the team’s research was featured on the cover of the June 2014 magazine. He talked to me about his expedition and how the National Geographic Magazine gives scientists the recognition they deserve, as well as make scientific discoveries known to all and not just the scientific community.Lectures and Presentations:Charles Hamilton James, “I Bought a Rainforest” National Geographic Live at the Perot Museum, Dallas, Texas, April 7, 2016. Charlie Hamilton James shared about his expeditions and assignments for National Geographic. He talked about the animals, people and culture he encountered. I was able to attend his lecture in person, and learned a lot about the process National Geographic photographers go through in order to become published in the magazine. National Geographic Archivist Staff, tour of the National Geographic archives, Presentation at the National Geographic Headquarters, Washington D.C., May 24, 2016.I was able to meet with two assistant photo-archivists and Karen Buckley Cerka, who I had previously interviewed, at the National Geographic Headquarters. They gave me a tour of the archives, and demonstrated some of the black and white prints, autochrome and Kodachrome. I was shown some of their most famous films and they answered questions I had. Online Videos:“National Geographic: Our 125-Year Legacy of Exploration” National Geographic, Lastmodified 2013, Accessed October 30, 2015. National Geographic has explored countries and regions all over the world, and has explored places that many could never dream of going. This video reflects over the amazing journey that the society has been a part of and how much it has grown in 125 years. CBS News, “National Geographic Society: Still Exploring After 125 Years” Youtube, Last modified January 13, 2013, Accessed November 29, 2015.This video talks about some of the current projects that National Geographic is doing, and how this tradition has been going on for 125 years. The video talks about some of the older expeditions and how National Geographic has funded over 10,000 expeditions over the years.History, “This Day in History- National Geographic Society Founded” , n.d., Accessed February 24, 2016. This video explains the day when the National Geographic officially became a Society. The 33 men who had met for three weeks at the Cosmos Club had come together with the idea of sharing their adventures with others. On this day, their plans became actions when the formation was official.Teevees Greatest, “National Geographic 1964-1987 Full Theme and Montage HD” Youtube, Published March 4, 2016, Accessed April 16, 2016.This clip was shown before all of the National Geographic television specials throughout the years 1964-1987. While this is out of my timeline, the clip showed many different sides to the Society and taught me about the several fields the Society has influenced. Podcast Episodes:“World Adventurer and National Geographic Explorer- Mike Libecki” Adventure and Sports Podcast, Published November 23, 2015.Mike Libecki is an experienced National Geographic explorer who enjoys exploring lots of first ascents and journeying into unexplored lands. He talks about what it is like to be the first to discover these new places and how National Geographic brings this wonder of these lands to its readers.Conan, Neal, “Explorers Reflect on 125 Years of National Geographic” National PublicRadio, Published January 22, 2013. Host Neal Conan interviewed Robert Ballard, an explorer in residence for National Geographic; Terry Garcia, vice president for the Mission Programs at National Geographic; and Sarah Parcak, an associate professor of archaeology. The three talked about the history of National Geographic, the progress the Society has made in their experience, and their work with the Society.Greene, Matt, “January 27, 1888: National Geographic Society Founded” Today in History, Published January 27, 2016.This podcast explains how the Society was founded and gives a brief history of all of the very important achievements of the Society and the impact it has left on its countries and communities. This gave me valuable information I did not already know, including why Gardiner Greene Hubbard was voted the president though he wasn’t a scientist or geographer.Greene, Matt, “July 24, 1911: Machu Picchu Discovered” Today in History, Published July 24, 2015.This podcast talked about the exploration of Machu Picchu in 1911. After the exploration of the ancient ruins, the National Geographic Society funded an archeological dig at the ruins to discover more about the culture of the ancient Inca civilization that lived there. Hajek, Daniel, “How One Photographer Captured A Piercing Gaze that Shook the World”All Things Considered, NPR, Published July 26, 2015.Daniel Hajek sits down with National Geographic photographer Steve McCurry, who took the famous “Afghan Girl” photograph of the young refugee with the striking eyes. He explains who she was, and how he met her in the refugee camp and knew she would be the only picture he took. This girl served as a way to spread awareness of the war and need for help across the globe.Holleman, Vernon, “Interview with Gilbert Melville Grosvenor” BCG Holleman, Published 2010.The interviewer sits down and talks with former editor of the magazine and President of the Society, Gilbert Melville Grosvenor. They talk about his early life and work with the magazine as a young boy, and then go on to talk about his later career and recent retirement. Mangal, Sonali, “Photography, Nevada Wier, Travel and Fine Art Photographer, National Geographic” Learn Educate Discover, Published April 15, 2016.The host of the show, Sonali Mangal, talks with National Geographic photographer Nevada Wier and what her livelihood is like. The show serves as a way to learn about different occupations, so Nevada talks about her journey, her work with National Geographic, and how she became successful in her field.O’Neill, Claire, “Kodachrome: R.I.P.” The Picture Show, Published June 22, 2009. Kodak announced it will no longer sell Kodachrome, a type of film that was a large part of National Geographic’s photography. The radio show talks about the Society’s relationship with Kodachrome and some of the most popular Kodachrome photographs. Selbe, Shan, “Find Your Niche, Help the World” Entrepreneurial Thought Leaders, Published January 21, 2015.Shan Selbe talks to Stanford students of the Stanford Technology Ventures Program about how he landed as job as a National Geographic Explorer and gives advice on becoming successful in the scientific field. He mentions how National Geographic gave him so many useful tools to share his knowledge and research with the world. ................
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