Prometheus in the watershed

Two historical eras and two fire-based technologies influenced the landscape of the Southern Appalachians. The long-term impact of humans on the forest composition of the Southern Appalachian forests is examined through anthropological studies and colonial literature. The impact on the Southern Appalachian forests by the introduction of the railroads at the turn of the twentieth century is examined through government publications and private documents. The theme of Prometheus runs through this paper to symbolize the inclination of humans to use technology to over exploit natural resources. The Greek myths associated with Prometheus are compared to similar Cherokee myths.