Early California: pre-1769–1840s: Manifest Destiny
John C. Fremont – Pathfinder. ca. 1865. Charles D. Fredricks, photographer. Albumen print carte de viste. Collection of Oakland Museum of California.
"I saw the image clear before me. War with Mexico was inevitable; and a grand opportunity now presented itself to realize the far-sighted views of Senator Benton, and make the Pacific Ocean the western boundary of the United States."
– John C. Fremont
This image depicts John C. Fremont, dressed in a U.S. Army uniform, posing for a portrait in New York in 1865. After thirty years as an explorer, soldier, and politician, Fremont is waiting for a new assignment.