Colonial America

Definition

Colonial America refers to the period of American history from the establishment of the first permanent European settlements in the early 17th century until the American Revolution in the late 18th century. This era was marked by the growth of diverse cultures, economies, and social structures, which laid the groundwork for American identity and artistic expression.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Colonial America consisted of 13 colonies established along the Atlantic coast, each with its own unique social, political, and economic characteristics.
2. The arts in Colonial America were heavily influenced by European styles, but they also began to develop unique American forms reflecting the diverse cultural influences present in the colonies.
3. Portraiture during this period often served as a means of social status affirmation, depicting prominent figures in a way that emphasized wealth and lineage.
4. Still life painting emerged as a significant genre in Colonial America, often symbolizing abundance, trade, and the everyday lives of colonists.
5. Colonial artists faced challenges such as limited materials and isolation from European art centers, yet they adapted by incorporating local themes and subjects into their works.

Review Questions

• How did the cultural and economic conditions of Colonial America influence the development of still life as an art form?
  • The cultural diversity and burgeoning economy of Colonial America played a crucial role in shaping still life as an art form. Artists used still life to reflect the richness of local resources and trade relationships with Europe, often incorporating items like fruits, flowers, and household goods that were significant to colonial life. These artworks served not only as decorative pieces but also as symbols of prosperity and abundance within a growing economy.
• Discuss how portraiture during Colonial America acted as a means of social documentation and what this reveals about societal values at the time.
  • Portraiture in Colonial America was more than just art; it was a powerful tool for social documentation. By commissioning portraits, individuals showcased their wealth, lineage, and status within society. This practice highlights the values placed on heritage and social standing during this period, where visual representation was linked to personal identity and societal perception.
• Evaluate the impact of European artistic traditions on Colonial American artists and how they adapted these influences to create a distinct American style.
  • European artistic traditions had a profound impact on Colonial American artists, who initially emulated styles from their homelands. However, as they faced unique challenges such as resource limitations and geographical isolation, these artists adapted these influences to create a distinct American style. By incorporating local themes and subjects into their works—like native flora, landscapes, and everyday life—Colonial American artists forged an identity that reflected their experiences while retaining elements of European aesthetics.

Related terms

Puritanism: A religious reform movement that emerged within the Church of England, emphasizing a strict moral code and the importance of personal piety, significantly influencing early colonial culture.

Colonial Economy: The economic system in Colonial America that was primarily agrarian, relying on cash crops like tobacco and rice, alongside trade with Europe and Native Americans.

Artisan: A skilled craftsperson who creates handmade goods, playing a key role in early American society by producing everything from furniture to textiles, contributing to both domestic life and commerce.