The1960s in the US and in many other countries was a time of prosperity, as well as social unrest. The first noted Earth Day culminated much respect for clean air and clean water and understanding of how ecosystems work. Brought on somewhat by the book, "Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson many people had become aware of how society could act to make certain that the many joys of the natural world could remain for future generations. Earth Day was a celebration of that consciousness and many felt that society was on the path to a much brighter future.

Less than two weeks later, another significant event wiped away the feeling of euphoria that was generally felt. In an unfortunate set of misunderstandings, a group of Ohio National Guardsmen on the campus of Kent State University fired upon a peaceful demonstration against the proliferation and advancement of the "conflict" in Vietnam. Four youngsters were killed in the devastating event. The outrage came from both sides of the protest - from those who believed peaceful protest was not hurting anyone, and from those who thought the protesting young folks needed to be set straight and show that the United States government got to call all of the shots.

The event has been studied in political science classes throughout the years and argued on many college campuses. An impact of the event is sung in the song by Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young, "Ohio." The refrain "Four dead in Ohio" sums up the feeling well.

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