Washington's entry into New York 1783

“Washington's Entry into New York” was created by Currier and Ives, a prominent printmaking firm, towards the end of the 19th century, a period marked by rapid industrialization and the rise of nationalism in the United States. This image captures a pivotal moment in American history, the re-occupation of New York after the departure of British troops, which is filled with symbolism about power and identity. Consider the gendered nature of the celebration depicted, women and children line the streets in their finery, offering flowers in welcome. Yet, these figures, symbols of domesticity, stand in contrast to the militarized display of the male figures on horseback. What does it mean to be a woman in this new republic? Where do women belong in the creation of a national narrative? Currier and Ives’ print invites us to reflect on these dynamics, allowing us to consider both the triumphs and the complexities inherent in the story of a nation’s founding.