Westward the Course of Empire Takes Its Way
Emanuel Leutze · 1862
Why it's great
Pioneers in wagons cross the Rocky Mountains, with a view of the setting sun and the promised land of California ahead. Emanuel Leutze painted this huge mural for the U.S. Capitol in 1861–62. The painting celebrates the spirit of westward expansion. It is a classic picture of American history, though it doesn't show the people who already lived there.
🏛️ Part of history
Westward Expansion & the Frontier (1803–1890) — Leutze's mural for the US Capitol shows pioneers reaching the crest of the Rockies and seeing the Pacific.
Where to see it
📍 United States CapitolWashington, D.C., United States
Open in Maps ↗Hang it on your wall
Three places to look for a print of this painting, from budget to museum-grade:
These links open search results on each shop's own website; we don't sell anything or earn a commission, and print quality varies by seller. Ask a grown-up before you buy anything.
Emanuel Leutze was born in Schwäbisch Gmünd, Germany, and moved to the United States as a child. He later studied in Düsseldorf, Germany, and lived there for years while painting American history scenes. He returned to the U.S. in 1859 and worked in Washington, D.C. His painting of Washington crossing the Delaware became a national icon.
