National Historic Preservation Act

Definition

The National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) is a U.S. law enacted in 1966 that aims to preserve the historical and archaeological heritage of the nation. It establishes a framework for identifying, evaluating, and protecting historic properties and provides guidelines for federal agencies to consider preservation in their projects. The act promotes public participation and collaboration in preservation efforts, ensuring that significant cultural resources are recognized and safeguarded.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The National Historic Preservation Act was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson on October 15, 1966.
2. One of the primary purposes of the NHPA is to encourage federal agencies to integrate historic preservation into their planning processes.
3. The act created the National Register of Historic Places, which serves as a key tool for identifying significant historic resources across the country.
4. Through Section 106 Review, federal agencies must assess the impact of their projects on historic sites and seek to avoid or minimize harm.
5. The NHPA has led to greater awareness and appreciation of cultural heritage in the U.S., fostering community involvement in preservation activities.

Review Questions

• How does the National Historic Preservation Act facilitate public involvement in preservation efforts?
  • The National Historic Preservation Act facilitates public involvement through provisions like Section 106 Review, which requires federal agencies to consider the effects of their actions on historic properties and engage with the public during this process. This allows individuals and communities to voice their concerns about potential impacts on cultural resources and advocate for their protection. Additionally, state and local historic preservation organizations often play a role in educating the public and encouraging grassroots participation in preservation initiatives.
• Evaluate the impact of the National Register of Historic Places on local communities' preservation efforts.
  • The National Register of Historic Places has significantly impacted local communities by providing a framework for recognizing and protecting important cultural resources. Being listed can enhance community pride and identity, attract tourism, and sometimes provide access to federal preservation funding or tax incentives. However, it also places certain responsibilities on property owners to maintain the integrity of registered sites, which can present challenges for some communities. Overall, it encourages local stakeholders to engage in preservation work that reflects their unique heritage.
• Analyze the relationship between the National Historic Preservation Act and modern urban development, considering both challenges and opportunities.
  • The National Historic Preservation Act plays a critical role in shaping the relationship between historic preservation and modern urban development by balancing progress with cultural conservation. While development projects can threaten historic properties, the NHPA requires federal agencies to evaluate these impacts, leading to opportunities for integrating historic sites into new developments. This creates a chance to enhance urban spaces while respecting historical contexts. However, challenges arise when there are competing interests between developers looking for economic growth and advocates aiming to preserve cultural heritage, necessitating ongoing dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders.

Related terms

National Register of Historic Places: A list of districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects deemed worthy of preservation for their historical significance in the United States.

Section 106 Review: A provision of the NHPA requiring federal agencies to consider the effects of their undertakings on historic properties and provide opportunities for public comment.

State Historic Preservation Offices: State-level agencies responsible for implementing the NHPA, managing preservation programs, and assisting local governments in their preservation efforts.