Beautiful, Disturbing Photos From the First Earth Day in 1970

In 1970, nearly 20 million Americans gathered across the country to raise the public's awareness of air and water pollution. Founded by Senator Gaylord Nelson, people protested in New York, Boston, Chicago, Philadelphia, Los Angeles and most other major American cities, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. While a lot has changed in 44 years, the environment is still something to be concerned about and Earth Day is celebrated worldwide. — Lauren Tuck, Shine Staff