Clipper Ship 'Dreadnought' 1854

Currier and Ives created this print of the Clipper Ship 'Dreadnought' at a time when the United States was deeply engaged in maritime commerce and expansion. This image captures the spirit of ambition and technological advancement of the era. The 'Dreadnought', with its billowing sails and sleek design, was celebrated for its speed. But consider for a moment the human element, and labor, required to propel such a vessel across vast oceans. The sailors, often from diverse backgrounds, faced peril, hardship, and strict hierarchies aboard. Their stories, often overlooked, form an essential part of this ship’s history. Clipper ships facilitated the rapid transport of goods, including those produced by enslaved labor, thus deeply intertwining maritime trade with the economics of slavery. Looking at this print, one can reflect on the complex relationships between progress, exploitation, and the human cost of ambition.