American History in Art

A Bit of War History: The Contraband; The Recruit; The Veteran, 1865-5, Thomas Waterman Wood: These three paintings individually have powerful imagery that, when brought together, represent American society during The Civil War. They depict the controversy over the literacy of slaves, and their right to fight in the war. The Contraband, which depicts an African American man who seems to be preparing to set of to war, is the first of the three paintings. …

…work represents silver while the grey and the gold number 5 join together to create the picture. This painting depicts the greatness and importance of American cities as well. Interestingly, the artist, Charles Demuth, created this work inspired by the poet William Carlos Williams. These fact models the growing importance for art and literature that America felt would help raise its poor socially and economically. The painting as a whole embodies the greatness of American life.