American Progress is a painting created by John Gast in 1872, depicting the concept of Manifest Destiny and the westward expansion of the United States. The artwork symbolizes the belief that American settlers were destined to expand across the continent, bringing civilization, technology, and enlightenment to what was perceived as the 'wild' West. This painting illustrates the representation of 'Other' in colonial art and visual culture, portraying indigenous peoples and landscapes as obstacles to progress and emphasizing a Eurocentric worldview.
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The painting features a female figure representing 'Columbia,' a national personification of America, leading the way for settlers into the West.
American Progress is often interpreted as a justification for the displacement of Native Americans and the destruction of their cultures in the name of progress.
The use of light and dark in the painting symbolizes civilization advancing into darkness, contrasting progress with the perceived backwardness of indigenous populations.
Gast's work reflects the prevailing attitudes of his time, which viewed westward expansion as both an opportunity and a moral imperative for American society.
The painting has become an iconic image representing not only Manifest Destiny but also the broader themes of American exceptionalism in visual culture.
Review Questions
How does John Gast's American Progress reflect the concept of Manifest Destiny in its portrayal of westward expansion?
American Progress visually encapsulates Manifest Destiny by depicting a divine figure, Columbia, leading settlers into the West, which symbolizes the belief that Americans were destined to expand across North America. The painting contrasts civilization with darkness, portraying indigenous peoples as obstacles to be overcome. This representation emphasizes a narrative that justified expansion as a moral and inevitable pursuit, reflecting the mindset of 19th-century America.
In what ways does American Progress represent the 'Other' through its imagery and symbolism?
American Progress represents the 'Other' primarily through its depiction of indigenous peoples as marginalized figures fleeing from the advancing settlers. The painting employs allegory, with Columbia representing civilization and progress while Native Americans are shown retreating into darkness. This visual contrast reinforces stereotypes that viewed indigenous cultures as primitive and in need of displacement for progress to occur, highlighting colonial attitudes towards those seen as different or inferior.
Evaluate the impact of John Gast's American Progress on contemporary understandings of American history and visual culture regarding colonialism.
John Gast's American Progress has had a lasting impact on how American history is understood, particularly in terms of colonialism and national identity. The painting has been critiqued for perpetuating narratives that romanticize westward expansion while glossing over the violence against Native populations. By examining this artwork within its historical context, contemporary audiences are encouraged to question prevailing notions of progress and recognize the complex legacies of colonialism that continue to shape American society today.
Related terms
Manifest Destiny: The 19th-century doctrine that it was the divine right and destiny of the United States to expand its territory across North America.
Allegory: A symbolic representation in art or literature, where characters or events represent larger ideas or moral qualities.
Colonialism: The practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically.