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American Progress
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American Progress
Painting entitled American Progress, by John Gast, depicting Manifest Destiny (the religious belief that the United States should expand from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean in the name of God). In 1872 artist John Gast painted a popular scene of people moving west that captured the view of Americans at the time. Called Spirit of the Frontier and widely distributed as an engraving portrayed settlers moving west, guided and protected by a goddess-like figure and aided by technology (railways, telegraphs), driving Native Americans and bison into obscurity. It is also important to note that angel is bringing the light as witnessed on the eastern side of the painting as she travels towards the darkened west. USA, circa 1872. (Photo by Fotosearch/Getty Images)
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Media ID 14622583
© 2010 Getty Images
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the renowned painting "American Progress" by John Gast, which vividly depicts the concept of Manifest Destiny. Created in 1872, this artwork beautifully captures the prevailing American sentiment of that era. Titled "Spirit of the Frontier" it portrays a mass migration towards the western frontier, symbolizing America's divine mission to expand from coast to coast. The image features settlers embarking on their westward journey, guided and protected by a goddess-like figure representing progress and enlightenment. This celestial being is accompanied by technological advancements such as railways and telegraphs, signifying their crucial role in facilitating this ambitious expansion. However, amidst this perceived progress lies a darker undertone; Native Americans and bison are pushed into obscurity as they face displacement and marginalization. Notably, an angelic figure brings light from the eastern side of the painting towards the west – a metaphorical representation of civilization spreading across untamed lands. This photograph serves as a poignant reminder of America's historical aspirations while also highlighting its impact on indigenous populations. Preserved through time, this print allows us to reflect upon an important chapter in American history when dreams of territorial conquest were intertwined with religious fervor. It stands as both an artistic masterpiece capturing national ideology and a testament to our ever-evolving understanding of cultural heritage.
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