Final answer:
Rachel Carson was motivated by environmental concerns to publish two books about creatures and places in and around the ocean. Several ecological disasters raised public awareness and led to political action.
Step-by-step explanation:
Rachel Carson was motivated to publish two books about creatures and places in and around the ocean due to her growing concerns about environmental sustainability. Several ecological disasters, such as oil spills and river fires, had occurred, which confirmed the fears of many about the impact of economic growth on the environment. These events led to a rise in environmental concerns and activism, culminating in the world's first Earth Day celebration in 1970.