Silent Spring is an environmental science book by Rachel Carson published in 1962. The book documented the environmental harm caused by a type of pesticide used by soldiers during WW2. Carson accused the industrial sector of spreading disinformation regarding chemicals and pesticides. The book brought environmental concerns to the American public but was met with fierce opposition by chemical companies.
Silent Spring swayed public opinion and led to a reformation of US pesticide policy, a nationwide ban on DDT for agricultural uses, and an environmental movement. It became a rallying point for a new social movement in the 1960s, altering the American mindset towards reducing pollution and strengthening regulations to protect the environment. It helped inspired the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act.