Question: "How was the popularity of picturesque architecture in 19th century America relates to changes in cultural and social relationships in the nation?-.
In the 19th century, cultural and social changes were occurring which effectively revolutionized the current way of life, and these drastic changes were later reflected in a revolutionizing of architectural styles from the neo- classical Roman style to the picturesque style. Picturesque architectural style was unique because of its intricacies, irregularities, asymmetrical shapes, and had a more naturalistic quality. Major social changes of the times included the women's suffrage movement and stride toward equal rights for women, the abolitionist movement, the religious revival, and prison reforms. Cultural changes included a change in the family dynamic that stemmed from the changing role of the modern woman, an increased emphasis on artwork, and a refined appreciation of nature. Additionally, the 19th century brought about technological advances including major industrialization and commercialization as well as the increase of pre-cut and pre-fabricated building parts. All of these changes were accompanied by the modification of the architectural style of the time.
The predominate reason for the social changes of the 1800s was the desire of all social classes to reach a true sense of egalitarianism. At this time women sought social freedom through the movement for voting rights while African American worked toward the abolition of slavery. In 1848 the Seneca Falls Convention was organized Lucretia Mott, Elizabeth Cady-Stanton and Susan B. Anthony and produced what is now known as the Seneca Falls Manifesto. The Seneca Falls Manifesto proclaimed their grievances of how women were treated and demanded that women be considered equal to their male counterparts. Also seeking equality were different religious individuals who were breaking away from the mainstream religion.