History and Culture
Refuge Establishment: Legislation and Purposes
The Arctic Refuge was established in 1960 and expanded in 1980.
Refuge History
The Arctic Refuge has been providing for the physical and emotional well-being of humans for many thousands of years. It remains an important resource to help sustain local Eskimo and Indian cultures. The Refuge continues to be valued, even
by those who never travel within it's borders, as a symbol of America's vast and remote
wilderness - a place of inspiration and beauty - a promise for the future for all Americans.
Local Cultures
The lands of the Arctic Refuge continue to support the Inupiat Eskimo and Gwich'in Indian peoples who have lived here for centuries.
September 12, 2008
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