Why are national monuments protected by the U.S. government?

Why are national monuments protected by the U.S. government? National monuments protect a wide variety of natural and historic resources, including sites of geologic, marine, archaeological, and cultural importance. In contrast, national parks in the U.S. must be created by Congressional legislation.

What is the biggest landmark in the United States?

Gateway Arch, St. When it comes to constructed monuments, none in the U.S. come larger than the Gateway Arch in St. Louis. Finished in 1965 it's known as the "Gateway to the West" as part of the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial that honors St. Louis as a launching point for American expansion.

Are national monuments protected by the government?

The Antiquities Act of 1906 is one of our nation's most important conservation tools. Used to safeguard and preserve federal lands and cultural and historical sites for all Americans to enjoy, 18 presidents have used this authority and have designated 161 national monuments.

Who decides what is a national monument?

National monuments can either be established by Congress though legislation or by the president of the United States through the use of the Antiquities Act.

How is a monument protected?

A Pennsylvania law states that a person commits a misdemeanor of the second degree if he: (1) intentionally desecrates any public monument or structure, or place of worship or burial; or (2) intentionally desecrates any other object of veneration by the public or a substantial segment thereof in any public place; ...

Can the president create national monuments?

Not all national monuments are established the same way. Some are created by presidents using the authority of the Antiquities Act. Congress also creates national monuments through the legislative process.

What is the oldest National Monument in the United States?

Devils Tower was designated as America's first national monument in 1906 by President Theodore Roosevelt.

What is the penalty for defacing a National Monument?

For that reason, the defacing, destruction, or desecration of these sites is a criminal offense—and when it happens on federal property or when crossing state lines, it's a federal crime under Title 18 U.S. Code 1369. If convicted of violating this law, you could face up to 10 years in federal prison.

Are national monuments permanent?

It allows the president of the United States to permanently reserve public lands with significant prehistoric, historic, or natural features. There are few statutory limits upon this power; the only restrictive clause in the law limits the monuments to the smallest area compatible with their management.

Can a statue be a national monument?

The Statue of Liberty was dedicated on October 28, 1886. It was designated as a National Monument in 1924.