Using art to understand U.S. history

When you envision the history of the United States, what first comes to mind? For many, it might be a painting of George Washington, during the Revolutionary War, silently crossing the Delaware river at night; or a photograph of a destitute mother during the Great Depression. There are many images that have defined American history—some are well known, and some are waiting to be discovered, but all of them tell complex stories that can help us better understand our world today.

Works of art are not illustrations that support the telling of a story. Instead, they are primary documents every bit as important as written materials such as treaties and letters. Historical paintings, sculptures, photographs, and architecture can offer vivid expressions of a particular moment in history.

Historians have developed methods that allow them to carefully analyze historical documents. In a similar way, art historians have developed methods to understand works of art. The key principles listed below will help you to draw meaning from works of art and will help bring the visual history of the United States to life.

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