Manifest Destiny was a belief held by many Americans in the 19th century that it was the God-given right and duty of the United States to expand its territory from the Atlantic coast to the Pacific Ocean. This belief was reflected in many ways, including in art and imagery. One such example is the painting "Westward the Course of Empire Takes Its Way," which was created in the mid-19th century by artist Emmanuel Leutze.
This painting depicts a scene of European settlers pushing westward on horseback, with the Rocky Mountains in the background. The message of the painting is clear: the settlers are moving westward with a sense of purpose and determination, guided by a divine force. The painting suggests that the expansion of the United States is not just a practical or political decision, but a moral one as well.
The painting also reflects the cultural biases of the time. The settlers are depicted as strong, brave, and heroic, while the Native Americans and other indigenous peoples who already lived in the West are nowhere to be seen. This reflects the dominant narrative of the time, which saw the expansion of the United States as a civilizing mission rather than as a form of colonization and displacement.
Overall, "Westward the Course of Empire Takes Its Way" is a powerful visual representation of the belief in Manifest Destiny that shaped American expansion in the 19th century. It reflects the sense of purpose and determination that motivated many Americans to push westward, as well as the cultural biases and assumptions of the time. Despite its historical significance, it is important to remember that Manifest Destiny had significant consequences for indigenous peoples and that this belief has been criticized for promoting a sense of entitlement and superiority over others.
