Before debates over drilling, development, and conservation, America’s public lands were born out of conflict, ambition, and a vision of shared space for the people. In this first half of our two-part deep dive, we trace the history of the United States’ public land system—from the earliest land grabs and homestead dreams to the creation of the national parks we know today. Along the way, we uncover how these lands became a cornerstone of American identity, and why their story is far from finished.Stay tuned for Part 2, where we explore the battle over selling public lands, global comparisons, and the cases for and against keeping land in the hands of the people.

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