Turtle Island
Turtle Island is the English language translation of many First Nations' term for the continent of North America.
It's often used as a substitute for or synonym for North America.
The term was brought into popular usage by Gary Snyder through his 1974 book Turtle Island.
The name Turtle Island is a symbolic reference to the First Nations' creation story. To the Anishinabe, North America is Turtle Island.
The legend of how Turtle Island was created and received its name is a story of survival through cooperation and self sacrifice.
It teaches us that all things are created equal and reminds us to live in harmony with creation.
The First Nations' respect for the environment and their belief in the protection of the land is reflected by use of the term.