Describe the characteristics of the Background in this artwork's History.
The Golden Boy was conceived during the backdrop of World War I by British-born architect Frank Worthington Simon, who also designed the Manitoba Legislative Building that the figure would adorn.The construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway began to open the West in the late-19th century, and as result, thousands of immigrants began settling in and near Winnipeg in 1881. By 1911, the population of Manitoba had increased over seven-fold, to 461,394. That year, as the province was rich in natural resources, and Winnipeg (its capital) was a hub for agriculture, grain trade, and other enterprises, the Government of Manitoba announced plans to construct a new legislature, which Manitoba politicians hoped to represent this emerging strength and vitality. Being judged as best reflecting this goal, Simon's designs intended to create a building of inspiration, and his 'crowning glory' would be the statue positioned at its highest point.
grain trade Manitoba Legislative Building Canadian Pacific Railway Winnipeg Frank Worthington Simon Government of Manitoba Gold agriculture World War I Manitoba