Plate 47. Ruby-throated Humming Bird 

John James Audubon created "Plate 47. Ruby-throated Humming Bird" as part of his ambitious project, "Birds of America", during the early 19th century. Born in what is now Haiti, Audubon’s life and work were deeply shaped by his relationship with the American frontier and its natural environment. Yet, Audubon's legacy is complicated. While celebrated for his detailed illustrations, it's important to acknowledge the troubling aspects of his methods and the cultural context in which he operated. His pursuit of ornithological accuracy involved shooting birds, a practice reflective of a colonial mindset toward nature as a resource to be dominated. Audubon's images helped shape popular perceptions of American wildlife and the narrative of untamed wilderness, often overshadowing the complex relationships between indigenous peoples and the land. As we admire the artistry and detail of this hummingbird illustration, let's also consider the broader implications of Audubon's work within the history of American expansion and environmental exploitation.