Historical representations of "The Other", with a focus on the motives and justifications for actions.
Double portrait, Carl Fredric von Breda, 1789, From the collection of: Nordiska Museet
The psychological characteristics of "The Other" in the times of slavery in America. The White is portrayed as superior to the African American and seems almost condescending as he is "helping" him.
Group of Negros, as imported to be sold for Slaves, William Blake after John Gabriel Stedman, 1793, From the collection of: National Gallery of Art, Washington DC
The white man is almost standing over the "Group of Negroes" as if it is him against them. The painting portrays it as obvious that he will be in power because he is superior.
The Attack on an Emigrant Train, Charles Ferdinand Wimar, 1856, From the collection of: University of Michigan Museum of Art
The settlers saw Native Americans as lesser because they were different, therefore, treated them as seen here. Unfortunately, this idea was widespread so the Natives were treated poorly over and over.
War in Hawaiian Water. Japanese Torpedoes Attack Battleship Row, Pearl Harbor, Japanese, December 7, 1941, From the collection of: The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
War is a very clear example of "The Other" because there is an enemy, regardless of the side you're on. The enemy is seen as wrong, therefore, it is okay to fight/kill them because your side is right.
Jews Captured By Nazi Troops In Warsaw, Frederic Lewis, 1943-04-19, From the collection of: Getty Images
The difference in ideology often leads to conflict as seen here where people are being rounded up like cattle because of they have different religious beliefs.
War In S. Vietnam, Larry Burrows, 1962-08, From the collection of: LIFE Photo Collection
"Them" is usually presented lower than the superior, "Us" which is the case here too. The idea of the enemy being wrong makes "Them" often seem subhuman, which is often the justification for killing.
War And Conflict, 1968-05, From the collection of: LIFE Photo Collection
Conflicts arise which lead to death. The concept of "The Other" can often be seen in war, where differences in ideas lead to conflicts which turn violent and unfortunately often into war.
Boy Lifted Onto Berlin Wall, Steve Eason, 1989-12-31, From the collection of: Getty Images
Divides that create the concept of "The Other" can be physical, like this wall, which separated people. It can also be psychological, to create emotional divides due to differences in ideas.
Mural by Banksy, Banksy, From the collection of: Global Street Art Foundation
This street art can be interpreted from either side, but the main idea is the conflict that is arising. "The Other" is usually felt when two sides are emerging due to differences whatever they may be.
Credits: All media
This user gallery has been created by an independent third party and may not represent the views of the institutions whose collections include the featured works or of Google Arts & Culture.
