ABSTRACT
In Texas, pioneers, Indians, Texas Rangers, and even outlaws were perceived to be among the key figures that embodied the region's identity. In the Texas post office murals, these Texas icons were elevated to heroes to advance New Deal goals. A hero is a courageous being, physically and spiritually superior, who possesses extraordinary, culturally revered qualities. Heroes personify ideals and are powerful vehicles that help define a people. Murals were painted on post offices where the public would see them each day as they conducted their postal business. The parade of heroes selected in the painted scenes of Texas post office murals represents some of the historical highlights that helped make Texas regionally unique, but, at the same time, reflects generally accepted democratic values that New Deal leaders sought. All the heroes in the murals seem to have a great love of personal freedom, self-confidence, and a sense of responsibility to a group.
