Skip to main content
The Backbone of the South
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library
The Backbone of the South
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library

The Backbone of the South

Artifact SeriesDomestic Gifts
Artifact IDDO.07012011-4-2.2
Object Type Print
Intended Recipient (American, 1961)
Medium paper, ink
DimensionsOverall - 2D L 18 in x W 24 in (61 cm x 45.7 cm )
Physical Description
Physical DescriptionPrint depicting a cotton plantation in the American South with a cabin in the foreground and a large house in the background. In the field are about a dozen African American people picking cotton and gathering it in bags. The scene is depicted primarily in shades of blue and green.
Inscriptions and MarkingsPrinted at lower center of obverse: The Backbone of the South Printed in lower left of obverse: [artist's signature]
Custodial History / ProvenanceThe item was a gift from a member of the general public to President Barack Obama during the Obama Administration. It was received through the Office of the President and maintained there until its transfer to the National Archives in January 2017 for deposit with the Obama Presidential Library.Additional Details
National Archives Catalog CollectionBarack Obama Artifact Collection (National Archives Identifier 63542091)
National Archives Catalog SeriesDomestic Gifts (National Archives Identifier 66540613)
Use Restriction StatusRestricted - Possibly
Use Restriction NoteCopyright or other proprietary rights may be held by individuals or entities other than the Obama Presidential Library. The Obama Presidential Library does not warrant that the use of materials will not infringe on the rights of third parties holding the rights to these works, or make any representations or warranties with respect to the application or terms of any international agreement, treaty, or protections that may apply. It is your responsibility to determine and satisfy any copyright or other use restrictions. Pertinent regulations can be found at 36 C.F.R 1254.62.
In Collection(s)
Related Event(s)
    Not on view