American Progress

Definition

American Progress is an allegorical painting by John Gast, created in 1872, symbolizing the concept of Manifest Destiny, which held that American settlers were destined to expand across North America. The painting depicts a personification of America, often portrayed as a woman, leading the way for civilization and progress as she moves westward. This imagery highlights the belief in American exceptionalism and the idea that expansion was not only inevitable but also beneficial for the nation and its inhabitants.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The painting 'American Progress' portrays the idea that westward expansion was a noble endeavor, leading to the spread of civilization, technology, and education.
2. The figure of 'Columbia' in the painting symbolizes both America itself and the spirit of progress, often depicted carrying light and guiding settlers.
3. American Progress reflects the era's attitudes towards Native Americans, who are shown retreating in the painting, symbolizing displacement and conflict due to expansion.
4. The concept of Manifest Destiny was used to justify territorial acquisitions such as Texas, Oregon, and California during the 19th century.
5. The painting illustrates not just physical expansion but also cultural superiority, suggesting that American values and institutions were meant to be shared with other peoples.

Review Questions

• How does 'American Progress' illustrate the themes of Manifest Destiny?
  • 'American Progress' visually represents Manifest Destiny through its depiction of a guiding figure leading settlers into new territories. The personification of America is shown illuminating the path forward, suggesting that expansion is both a right and a responsibility. This imagery encapsulates the belief that American culture and values should spread across the continent, reinforcing the notion that this movement was divinely ordained.
• Discuss the implications of American Progress on Native American populations during westward expansion.
  • 'American Progress' highlights the consequences of Manifest Destiny on Native American populations by showing them retreating in the face of American expansion. This depiction suggests a narrative where indigenous peoples are viewed as obstacles to progress rather than as rightful inhabitants of their land. As settlers moved westward, many Native American communities faced displacement, violence, and cultural erasure, illustrating the darker side of this seemingly positive vision of progress.
• Evaluate how 'American Progress' reflects broader social attitudes toward expansion during the 19th century and its legacy on contemporary views of nationalism.
  • 'American Progress' reflects 19th-century social attitudes by portraying expansion as a moral imperative tied to national identity and destiny. This belief in American exceptionalism has shaped historical narratives and policies regarding territorial acquisition. The legacy of these ideas can still be seen today in contemporary discussions about nationalism and America’s role in global affairs. By glorifying past expansionist ideologies, society continues to grapple with issues of identity, land rights, and cultural dominance as they relate to historical injustices.

Related terms

Manifest Destiny:

The 19th-century doctrine that it was the divine right and duty of Americans to expand across the North American continent.

Frontier: The advancing border of settlement in the American West, representing both opportunity and conflict as settlers moved into new territories.

Nativism:

A political movement favoring the interests of established inhabitants over those of immigrants, often emerging in response to rapid expansion and cultural changes.