Racial Stereotypes in American Visual Culture Paper

Topic 2: Racial stereotypes in American visual culture from 1900-1965The period between 1900 and 1965 saw significant changes in American visual culture, with the rise of photography profoundly impacting how Americans saw themselves and the world around them. During this period, photography moved from being a niche hobby to a widespread form of popular media, thanks partly to the development of more accessible and affordable cameras.Photography played a crucial role in shaping Americans’ perceptions of themselves and their country. Images of urbanization, industrialization, and technological progress depicted a rapidly changing America, while portraits and family photographs captured individual identities and relationships (Schwartz & Ryan, 2021). However, photography also perpetuated racial stereotypes and inequalities, with images of African Americans and other marginalized groups often being used to reinforce negative stereotypes and maintain systems of oppression.Photography was also instrumental in shaping political and social movements during this period. Images of the Great Depression, World War II, and the Civil Rights Movement brought these pivotal moments in American history to life, helping to shape public opinion and inspire action.Topic #2 is still way too broad. Focus on a specific stereotype (ie, Mammy or Jezebel figure, or on images that contradicted those types) or perhaps on race and the photography of a particular artist or of a particular decade.