Welcome to Our Columbia
For centuries artists depicted nations as women, symbolic to their country. Our Columbia is an in-depth study into the identity of our female personification for the United States. In this exploration, you will discover that our country was known for a majority of its history as, “Columbia”– and symbolized via our female heroine, Columbia – who was, and is, the real “Liberty". Over time, the appearance of the U.S. allegorical female varied widely, her characteristics were largely the result of which country created the image, who is in power at that time, and the ongoing concern shown or discussed.
This chronicle delves into these nuances, and more, including; her origin, her past and present, then paying close attention to her unexpected disappearance from the contemporary public consciousness. The mission of the 'Our Columbia' website is to educate, reminding everyone who we are as a united people - and who she was, as the true representation of the people.
It's our goal to help you better understand just how saturated the spirit of Columbia was in our nation's culture for the majority of our country’s history, from the late 1600's through WW2. Equally as significant, we hope you also consider why you may have never heard of her, or our country, as 'Columbia'. We encourage you to explore the rich history of Our Columbia and you too may wonder,
where is she now?
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The First Voyages to the New World, the Americas
Did you know, the term, "America" actually means "New Lands" or "New World", and was not specific to just the today's U.S. region? Instead, America actually refers to the ENTIRE continent(s) of North America and South America combined. Did you also know research shows both continents were originally discovered by Amerigo Vaspucci, not Christopher Columbus? Only then, for the first time on a map, the land mass was drawn separate from Asia and named Americas, by early cartographer Martin Waldseemüller, Therefor, the land territories, in and around the current United States, were all called 'The Americas'. Why do we tell you all of this?
It's important to know, from the late 160o's till the late 1800's, over 200 years, what we think of as the "United States of America" was actually referred to as the new nation of "Columbia". Kings, Queens and other world leaders, early cartographers (Map Makers) and even our first President,
George Washington, called North America's U.S. territory, "Columbia".
The Timeline
Our timeline reflects the documented history of 'Columbia' as the true identity of the country, and the female spiritual embodiment of the United States of North America - more specifically its people. We use this timeline to illustrate the vast scope of her appearances, depictions and events, from the first mention of the name, through 4 centuries, and up to the current year. It highlights Columbia's origin, ethical and political characteristics through the various artistic renditions from a variety of sources, such as; minted coins, sculptures, music, advertisements, cartoons, poetry and more.
The timeline also looks at physical locations that use the namesake, from large municipalities and districts, to small rural areas, bodies of water, commercial brands and more, all around the nation. This body of research includes reference links as available from certified and verified reputable sources. Due to the complexity, and deep roots of Columbia, we are consistently sorting through new information. New content is often added, as well as, existing content may be fine-tuned.
Most 'Americans' have no idea.
Want to let them know?
Our Columbia has a collection of unisex graphic tees where you’ll find images and designs that are easy to appreciate, with classic and contemporary styles. Featuring cultural art that educates, as well as it represents. We have something for everyone!
We have a variety of graphics from real artists just for you. Find traditional shirts, stylish logo t-shirts, and shirts from the early years of Columbia, thru today.
Graphic t-shirts come in a range of colors and sizes. You can also make your point with a graphic hoodie, or sweatshirt, or tote bags, and more to choose from. Find authentic, historical styles to complement your appreciation for Columbia.
We also have a variety of exclusive collections including; Oil Paintings, Lithographs, Music Sheets and more. You’ll also find all of the up-and-coming designs in amazing styles. With a collection as cool as this, you’re sure to find the best patriotic graphics exclusively at Our Columbia.
Our Columbia is known for having the best graphic tees made here in the United States. Find out why when you shop our collections.
