Final answer:
The first mandated hunter education program began in New York in 1949 to promote safety and conservation among hunters.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first mandated hunter education program began in the state of New York in 1949. This initiative was part of a broader effort to ensure that hunters were well-informed about safety, wildlife management, and conservation. The success of this program led to the widespread adoption of similar educational programs across the United States, designed to promote safe and responsible hunting practices, while contributing to the conservation of natural resources.