What year was the Lacey Act established to protect wildlife?

The Lacey Act was established in 1900 and is significant in the realm of wildlife protection in the United States. It was the first federal law designed to protect wildlife by prohibiting the transport of illegally captured or forbidden animals across state lines. This legislation was crucial in setting a precedent for federal wildlife conservation efforts and in addressing the growing concerns over the overexploitation of wildlife during that era.

The establishment of the Lacey Act marked an important step in recognizing the need for regulated trade in wildlife to ensure the survival of various species, as unregulated hunting and trading during the late 19th and early 20th centuries had led to severe declines in certain wildlife populations. It paved the way for subsequent conservation laws and initiatives aimed at preserving natural resources.

In comparison, the other years listed refer to either later amendments or different significant legislation concerning wildlife conservation or environmental protection but do not relate to the original establishment of the Lacey Act.