As shown on the History Channel, "How the Earth Was Made: Yosemite" examines how Yosemite Valley formed through plate-scale tectonics, volcanic activity, granite formation, river erosion, and glaciation. The episode explains how molten rock cooled deep underground to create exceptionally strong granite, how uplift of the Sierra Nevada and the Merced River carved an early V-shaped canyon, and how glaciers later widened and steepened the valley into its iconic shape. Key Earth science concepts include granite, sedimentary and volcanic rock, erosion, uplift, faults, glaciers, moraines, seismic evidence, and rock falls. The program also highlights the scientific debate between John Muir and Josiah Whitney, showing how geological evidence supports modern understanding of Yosemite’s landscape. This content aligns strongly with school curricula in geology, physical geography, earth processes, and scientific inquiry. Part of the "How the Earth Was Made" series.