American Progress

"American Progress" is a famous painting by John Gast created in 1872 that symbolizes the idea of Manifest Destiny—the belief that the United States was destined to expand westward across the continent. The artwork depicts a female figure representing America guiding settlers, covered wagons, and railroad workers into new territories, while indigenous peoples and buffalo are pushed aside. It visually emphasizes themes of progress, modernization, and territorial expansion during the 19th century, reflecting both the societal values and the complex history of American expansionism.