Although the figure in the painting is fictional, the artist used his story to represent the experiences of many real African American people. Which message was the artist likely tr to show with these paintings? The Civil War did not change the lives of many African American people. Many African American men served in the Union army during the Civil War. The Civil War led to the enslavement of many African American people. Many African American men served as elected representatives during the Civil War.

The artist likely aimed to highlight that the Civil War did not drastically alter the lived experiences of many African American individuals. Despite the historical significance of the war, the societal changes for African Americans were often slow or non-existent, continuing struggles for rights and recognition. Through his fictional figure, the artist poignantly reflects the enduring challenges faced, bridging personal narrative with collective history. Furthermore, it’s important to recognize that many African American men bravely served in the Union army, fighting for their freedom and the rights of their fellow citizens. Their contributions were crucial in tipping the scales in favor of the Union, and their bravery symbolizes a commitment to change that resonated beyond the battlefield, inspiring future generations in the fight for civil rights.