"Rachel Carson not only changed the kind of questions we ask about the environment; I think she caused us to start to ask those questions." "Rachel Carson" premieres next Tuesday, January 24 at 8/7c on PBS. | American Experience | PBS

With "Silent Spring," Rachel Carson offered a warning about the long-term dangers of pesticides and unleashed an extraordinary national debate. RACHEL CARSON returns to PBS on May 28 at 8/7c. | American Experience | PBS

For writer and scientist Rachel Carson, education came from books and birds. Writing and observing nature made a lifetime of learning. Carson, the author of "Silent Spring" died on April 14, 1964 in Silver Spring, Maryland. | American Experience | PBS