An October Day in the White Mountains 

John Frederick Kensett painted "An October Day in the White Mountains", immortalizing the grandeur of the American landscape. This was a time of profound transformation in the United States, marked by westward expansion, industrial growth, and also the escalating tensions over slavery that would soon erupt into Civil War. Kensett, like other artists of the Hudson River School, sought to capture the sublime beauty of nature, often imbuing his landscapes with a sense of spiritual or national identity. Consider for a moment who was not included in this vision of America. The erasure of indigenous presence, the exploitation of labor, and the forced displacement of communities are all part of this landscape's history. Yet, there is an undeniable emotional appeal in Kensett's depiction of the White Mountains. The serene vista invites contemplation, offering a temporary escape from the turmoil of the era. Perhaps, in its delicate balance of light and shadow, we can find a metaphor for the complex, often contradictory, narratives that shape our understanding of American identity.