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This is a special encore presentation of our series on America's National Parks, as many

of us return to traveling but remain mindful of social distancing.

Our National Park System is experiencing record attendance, but many visitors may be unaware

of the turbulent and sometimes controversial histories behind such natural wonders as

Yosemite, Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon.

In this series, we'll meet the naturalists, politicians and eccentric who fought to preserve

the most beautiful and unblumished corners of our country and will also meet the indigenous

peoples and early settlers who sometimes fought back.

Imagine it's March 21st, 1851, a little before 5pm, the sun is low in the sky behind

a rock formation, but you know it's going to be gone in about an hour or two.

The last weeks have been a blur.

Your soldier in the Mariposa Battalion, led by Major James D. Savage on orders from the

California Governor.

Ever since the Gold Rush, miners have been pouring into the state and that's led to skirmishes

with the local Indians, a tribe called the Awanichis.

They've been striking back to defend their land, making raids on white settlements.

But your duties as a messenger have kept you away from that battalion.

A lot has happened since you left.

Fellow soldiers getting you caught up.

Chief Taniyat turned himself in three days ago.

...