American Progress by John Gast Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What does the angel-like figure, representing Destiny, symbolize?

That westward expansion was the destiny of the American nation and blessed by God (correct)

That the pioneers should not travel westward

That westward expansion was a mistake

That the American government should stay in the east

What direction are the pioneers traveling in American Progress?

From east to west

Native Americans play a large role in the painting 'American Progress'.

False

What forms of transportation are depicted in American Progress?

Horse-drawn stage coaches, steamboats, railroad lines, covered wagons Signup and view all the answers

How is communication represented in the painting?

By the telegraph line and a school book Signup and view all the answers

What is depicted in John Gast's 1872 painting?

Settlers moving west and civilizing 'wild' nature Signup and view all the answers

What was America's Manifest Destiny in the 1800s?

To control land from the Atlantic to the Pacific Signup and view all the answers

What types of people are represented as pioneers in the painting?

Farmers, hunters, merchants, miners Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Destiny

Symbolized by a large angel-like figure leading pioneers, representing divinely ordained westward expansion.
Implies that the American nation’s growth is blessed by God.

Direction

Depicted by pioneers traveling from east to west, illustrating the expansion of the U.S.
Reflects the concept of Manifest Destiny, which motivated the migration across the continent.

Native Americans

Represented as fleeing due to encroachment from white settlers.
Their small presence in the painting signifies their marginalization in the face of American expansion.

Transportation

Features horse-drawn coaches, steamboats, railroads, and covered wagons, highlighting the diverse means of moving west.
The progression from rudimentary (covered wagons) to advanced (trains, boats) signifies the technological superiority and advancement of the U.S.

Communication

Illustrated by a telegraph line and a school book carried by the angel, emphasizing the spread of knowledge and connectivity.
Symbolizes the transformative impact of American settlement on the wilderness of the west.

American Progress

Created in 1872 by John Gast, this painting depicts settlers civilizing the "wild" nature of the west.
Conveys the mission of spreading "light" and benefits of American expansion to the Pacific Ocean.

Manifest Destiny

Conceived as a path ordained by God for America to control the land from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean.
In the 1800s, it encapsulated the belief that the U.S. was destined to spread its religion, culture, and technology.

Pioneers

Represents a diverse group of migrants including farmers, hunters, merchants, and miners, showcasing the variety of opportunities available in the west.
Illustrates the benefits of westward expansion for people from all walks of life.

Description

Explore key concepts from John Gast's painting 'American Progress' through flashcards. This quiz covers important themes like destiny and direction, highlighting the symbolism of westward expansion in American history. Perfect for students studying American art and history.