20 Million Americans Together

Earth Day reminds people to think about humanity's values, the threats the planet faces and ways to help protect the environment.

Sen Gaylord Nelson started Earth Day after seeing the environmental damage of an oil spill in Santa Barbara, California in 1969. Inspired by student anti-Vietnam War protests, he organized a national "teach-in" on college campuses that focused on educating the public about the environment.

With a staff of 85 built by Hayes, The senator was able to rally 20 million people across the U.S. on April 22, 1970.