How does the artist demonstrate a belief in manifest destiny?
The concept of manifest destiny, which asserts the inherent right of the United States to expand westward, has been a significant theme in American art. Artists have utilized various techniques and mediums to convey their beliefs and perspectives on this ideology. This article explores how artists have visually demonstrated their belief in manifest destiny through their works.
In the mid-19th century, as the United States expanded its territorial boundaries, artists began to depict the nation’s westward expansion in their works. One of the most prominent examples is the painting “The Raft of the Medusa” by Théodore Géricault, which serves as a metaphor for the American spirit. In this painting, a group of survivors is struggling to survive on a makeshift raft after their ship has sunk. The image of the raft floating towards the horizon can be seen as a representation of the American pioneers moving westward, facing challenges and hardships but ultimately reaching their destination.
Another example is the painting “Manifest Destiny” by Thomas Hart Benton, which depicts the westward expansion from the Louisiana Purchase to the Pacific Ocean. The painting is divided into three sections, each representing a different aspect of the expansion. The first section shows the pioneers moving westward, symbolizing the American spirit of exploration and adventure. The second section depicts the conflicts and struggles encountered along the way, including battles with Native Americans and the construction of the transcontinental railroad. The third section portrays the ultimate goal of reaching the Pacific Ocean, symbolizing the fulfillment of manifest destiny.
Photography also played a crucial role in demonstrating a belief in manifest destiny. Artists like Timothy O’Sullivan and William Henry Jackson captured the beauty and vastness of the American West, showcasing the land as a place of opportunity and progress. Their photographs of majestic landscapes, such as the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone National Park, served as a testament to the divine right of the United States to claim and develop these territories.
Literature also contributed to the portrayal of manifest destiny. Authors like James Fenimore Cooper and Mark Twain used their works to explore the themes of expansion and exploration. Cooper’s novel “The Last of the Mohicans” depicts the struggle between European settlers and Native Americans during the expansionist era. Twain’s “Roughing It” offers a humorous and critical perspective on the westward journey, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of the pioneers.
In conclusion, artists have demonstrated a belief in manifest destiny through various mediums and techniques. From paintings that symbolize the American spirit to photographs that capture the beauty of the West, and literature that explores the complexities of expansion, artists have played a vital role in shaping the public’s perception of this ideology. By examining these works, we gain a deeper understanding of the belief in manifest destiny and its impact on American culture and history.
