About This Lesson
Use this virtual escape room to learn how Emanuel Leutze’s Washington Crossing the Delaware embodies the motto, “E Pluribus Unum”—out of many, one.
Leutze painted “Washington Crossing the Delaware” in hopes of inspiring his countrymen to adopt America’s democratic reforms. While he was careful to include many historically accurate artifacts, he did not let authenticity get in the way of being dramatic and expressive. Leutze used artistic license—the freedom to depart from the facts to create an effect—to mythologize this moment in history. The boat’s crew represents the American people, with their varied regional clothing underscoring this diversity. The boat itself symbolizes the collective struggle and determination of the revolutionaries. This diversity and shared effort depict national unity. This learning module offers numerous readings from a range of historians and historical archives to support the stories of each crew member.
