Major General William H. Harrison 1807 - 1845

This bronze medal of Major General William H. Harrison was made by Moritz Fürst at an unknown date. It commemorates Harrison’s military victories during the War of 1812. The image shows a classical female figure, likely representing Liberty, holding a laurel wreath above a symbolic depiction of Fort Meigs and the Battle of the Thames. The medal was commissioned following a resolution of Congress, highlighting the important role of institutions in shaping historical narratives. The visual language draws heavily on classical symbolism, common in early American art, to connect the new republic with the legacy of ancient Greece and Rome. The medal reflects a desire to create a visual culture that promoted national unity and celebrated military achievements. Further understanding requires research into the social and political context of the War of 1812, the artistic conventions of commemorative medals, and the role of institutions like Congress in shaping public memory. This medal exemplifies how art can be used to construct and reinforce national identity.