George Washington in Wisconsin? From Canvas to Icon | The Look Back

What does this portrait of George Washington tell us about Wisconsin and American history? 

This 1854 painting of George Washington by Philadelphia artist Thomas Sully is based on another painting of George Washington done in 1796 by artist Gilbert Stuart. Many artists made copies of this image, and it has become one of the most famous portraits in American history. For the Wisconsin Historical Society, a copy of Washington’s portrait was a way of linking the young state to the bigger story of America. 

PBS Wisconsin has also made an extended educator guide available for this resource, which includes more about the artifacts from this episode, things to think about as you watch, and activities to extend the conversation beyond the video.

NOTE: The closed captions are also available in Spanish.