It's now a given that Americans--and people the world over--would seek to preserve their sacred, special places. One hundred fifty years ago, however, it was definitely not a foregone conclusion that the awe-inspiring granite cliffs, astounding waterfalls, and sublime sequoias of Yosemite would be protected. The idea of preserving special places grew into the national park idea, and it started on its course from a seed, a seed planted in Yosemite...