The American Man: How Rick in Casablanca Symbolizes the United States in the Twentieth Century

During the 1930s and 1940s, war was brewing in Europe, East Asia, and even Northern Africa. Axis aggression and Allied demand for help left the United States in a difficult position. Weary from economic depression, Americans did not want to enter another World War, however mounting pressures ultimately left them no choice. In 1942, the year Casablanca debuted, American military forces had just joined the fight. Michael Curtizs protagonist, Rick, faces a conflict strikingly similar to that of the United States during this time period. Heartbroken and jaded, Rick tries to run his business despite French police, German military officials, fellow expats, and black market salesmen all trying to exert their influence on him. While Rick feigns ambivalence, his altruism eventually gets the best of him, forcing him to take action. Though there are many themes and messages contained in Casablanca, Rick is a character American viewers could both admire and relate to since he is so representative of the contemporary political environment. When we first meet Rick, he is pitched as calm, masculine, and in control. An initial close-up of Ricks hand signing the check with a curt O.K. is an assertion of his power. In just a few seconds, the camera pans up to reveal Rick smoking, drinking, and playing chess. The audience gets a clear first impression of Ricks strong yet strategic nature. A shot-reverse shot pattern between Rick and Ferrari display the pressure on Rick to delve into the social web of Casablanca. Blowing off high-profile clientele, Rick takes a decisive stance in the face of turbulent conditions. Proclaiming numerous times, I stick my neck out for nobody, Rick mirrors U.S. foreign policy in the mid 30s.

Neutrality Acts sent a message to the world that America wanted no part of the war. Just as Ugarte, Ferrari, Renault, and Strausser all try to get Rick on their side, the U.S. faced offers and threats from various actors which eventually became to numerous to ignore. Both Rick and America were dealt harsh blows in their respective pasts. Ricks fling with Ilsa in Paris brought him happiness but ultimately left him in ruin. This is not just a Hollywood heartbreak, but also an allusion to Americas economic crisis. The Roaring 20s were characterized by carefree spending and widespread prosperity. However just like Rick, Americans were not prepared for abrupt change. When the stock market crashed, the United States was left in disrepair. The heart of the country had suffered even longer from the droughts that caused the Great Dust Bowl. The historical background of both Rick Blaine and the United States are both defensive because of past injury. Isolationism eventually proves to be futile. Just as the United States tiptoed from neutrality to direct involvement, Rick is slowly dragged into the action. Rick may say he cares nothing of politics, but a second look reveals a more complex stance. Shots showing Humphrey Bogart with his shadow cast on the wall represent the duality of Ricks attitude toward the stirring conflict. Despite what he says, Rick does care about the war evidenced by his participation in the Spanish Civil War and in shipping arms to Ethiopia. The United States faced a similar situation before officially entering the war. The Lend-Lease Act and other forms of aid to Allied forces were violations of neutrality, which slowly eroded the legitimacy of Americas stance. Like the U.S., Rick escalates involvement by breaking presidents. First he hides Ugartes exit visas, he then later sits with Ilsa and Victor, and eventually helps a young couple pay their way home.

Eventually Ricks convictions come to a climax when he kills Major Strausser at the airfield. Just like the U.S. declaration of war, Ricks sudden action changes the dynamic of his relationship with characters who represent the Allied forces. Just as Allied Europe was relieved by the entry of the U.S., Laszlow has a newfound respect for Ricks sacrifice. Additionally Renault and Rick now share a bond illustrated by the ever-soquotable line, I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship. As the alpha male of Casablanca, Humphrey Bogart is a great testament to the altruism, perseverance, and grit Americans all aspire to. This films phenomenal acting and permeating influence on future motion pictures make Casablanca an irreplaceable block in the foundation of film history. Moreover, Curtizs movie was a beacon of hope in a dark period in history. As Ilsa says, it seems as if the world were crumbling, yet Bogey sent the message that the world is still worth fighting for, and that fight can be won.