Peter Benchley's first novel, his masterpiece, was first published in 1974. As Jaws celebrates its 50th Anniversary, the seismic cultural shift it triggered in attitudes toward sharks and the ocean is remarkable. Peter Benchley's gripping tale and Steven Spielberg's cinematic genius didn't just captivate audiences; they unleashed a cultural phenomenon that fundamentally altered our perception of these creatures and their habitat, extending far beyond the realms of entertainment.

Of course, Jaws scared people and sparked an initial rash of indiscriminate shark hunting and tournaments in the late 1970s. It horrified Peter and his wife Wendy that some people's first reaction was to kill sharks. They took this slaughter and fear very seriously and began working to help change perceptions about sharks by becoming public advocates for sharks and ocean conservation.

For more than three decades, Peter tirelessly sounded the alarm about the threats facing sharks and the ocean, using his platform to raise awareness about the need to protect these ancient creatures and the fragility of marine ecosystems.

Over time, the legacy of Jaws shifted from fear to fascination and appreciation for sharks and the seas they inhabit. Today, Jaws is more than just a classic thriller; it's a cultural touchstone, reminding us of the power of storytelling to shape perceptions and inspire positive change in society's relationship with the natural world.