Why Michael Crichton Chose the Jurassic Period for His Dinosaur Adventure

The choice of the Jurassic Period as the setting for Michael Crichton's fascinating dinosaur-themed adventure can be attributed to several factors, including its inherent appeal and practical marketing considerations.

The Appeal of the Jurassic Period

The Jurassic Period, often referred to as the age of dinosaurs, stands out among other periods due to its well-preserved fossils and the sheer number of diverse dinosaur species that roamed the Earth during this time. From the massive and fearsome Allosaurus to the swift and agile Velociraptor, the period is celebrated for its rich variety of ancient creatures. However, it's worth noting that while the T-Rex has become a household name, the top predator of the Jurassic period, the Allosaurus, was a formidable and fearsome creature in its own right. It was, in fact, much larger and more imposing than its close relative, the Deinonychus, from which the Velociraptor was based.

The Diversity of Dinosaurs

During the Jurassic period, there was a remarkable diversity of dinosaur species, marking it as one of the most significant chapters in the history of life on Earth. This peak in biodiversity is what makes it a fascinating subject for both scientific study and popular fiction. After the Jurassic, this diversity declined, even before the eventual extinction of dinosaurs, which occurred during the late Cretaceous period.

The Marketing Aspect

Michael Crichton was not only a talented writer but also a savvy marketer. When naming his books, he chose a catchy title over a more accurate but less appealing one. He specifically chose to use the term 'Jurassic Park' instead of 'Cretaceous Park' or 'Mesozoic Park' for several reasons:

Jurassic Park sounds more appealing and marketable. The term 'Jurassic' is already well-known and carries an air of mystery and fascination, making it a perfect match for a fictional theme park centered around dinosaurs. People are more likely to remember 'Jurassic Park' than a less melodious name, which would make it easier for the franchise to achieve widespread recognition and success. Crichton wanted to evoke a sense of wonder and adventure, and 'Jurassic Park' does just that, conjuring images of ancient creatures brought to life in a modern setting.

Moreover, the use of the term 'Velociraptor' in his book was a deliberate choice. The term 'Velociraptor' is more catchy and easier to remember than the scientific names like 'Deinonychus' or 'Utahraptor'. This decision was not purely scientific but rather a marketing one, aimed at making the story more accessible and engaging to a wider audience.

Social and Cultural Impact

The success of the Jurassic Park franchise cannot be overlooked in discussions about the importance of the Jurassic Period. It reflects a broader interest in the Mesozoic Era and dinosaurs, demonstrating that scientific concepts can be beautifully combined with entertainment to create something that resonates deeply with audiences.

Michael Crichton’s decision to use the term 'Jurassic Park' was a calculated move that leveraged the cultural significance of dinosaurs to create a compelling narrative. It not only entertained but also introduced a new generation to the wonders of paleontology and the science behind it all.