Question

the book of national parks by robert sterling yard chapter 1 at the time of this books publication in 1919, the national park system in the united states was barely three years old, though national parks had existed for almost fifty years. in this excerpt from his book on the national park system of the united states, the author explains why the national parks in america are the best in the world. (1) the national parks of the united states are areas of supreme scenic splendor or other unique quality which congress has set apart for the pleasure and benefit of the people. at this writing they number eighteen, sixteen of which lie within the boundaries of the united states and are reached by rail and road. those of greater importance have excellent roads, good trails, and hotels or hotel camps, or both, for the accommodation of visitors; also public camp grounds where visitors may pitch their own tents. outside the united states there are two national parks, one enclosing three celebrated volcanic craters, the other conserving the loftiest mountain on the continent. (2) the starting - point for any consideration of select the correct answer. read paragraphs 1 - 2 of the excerpt. which sentence best summarizes these two paragraphs? a. other countries have parks equally scenic as american national parks. b. congress setting aside land to establish the national parks was an important act. c. the national parks are available to all americans and can be accessed easily. d. the beauty of the national parks distinguishes the united states from other countries.

Explanation:

The paragraphs emphasize the unique scenic beauty of US national parks and how Congress set them aside for people's pleasure. Option D captures the idea that the beauty of national parks makes the US distinct from other countries. Options A and B are not mentioned in the paragraphs, and option C focuses on accessibility rather than the main - idea of the beauty and distinctiveness.

Answer:

D. The beauty of the national parks distinguishes the United States from other countries.