Final answer:
The Weeks-McLean Act of 1913 was significant in advancing wildlife conservation in the U.S. by prohibiting the spring hunting and marketing of migratory birds and setting precedence for future legislation. It reflected Theodore Roosevelt's influence and commitment to conservation, though it had complex effects on traditional hunting practices.
Step-by-step explanation:
Impact of the Weeks-McLean Act on Wildlife Conservation
The Weeks-McLean Act of 1913 significantly impacted wildlife conservation efforts in the United States by prohibiting the spring hunting and marketing of migratory birds. It was one of the early federal laws aimed at wildlife conservation prior to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918. The Act was a response to the decline in bird populations due to overhunting and represented a shift in policy towards the protection of these species.
President Theodore Roosevelt was a strong advocate for conservation, and his administration set the stage for future legislation like the Weeks-McLean Act. Roosevelt's efforts to establish state agencies, along with creating wildlife refuges and national parks, laid the groundwork for the conservation movement which aimed at preserving natural habitats and species, especially migratory birds, for future generations to enjoy. Roosevelt's policies on conservation were influenced by his experience as a sportsman and his understanding of the importance of safeguarding natural resources.
While the Weeks-McLean Act was a significant step forward in conservation, it also disrupted the traditional hunting practices of Native Americans and other rural inhabitants who relied on these resources for sustenance. Nonetheless, it helped to raise public awareness about wildlife conservation and led to support for the creation of the National Park Service.