What was Benjamin West's role in the Royal Academy?

Benjamin West served as the President of the Royal Academy, a prominent institution in British art established in 1768 that played a significant role in the education and exhibition of artists. As President, West's influence was substantial; he was instrumental in shaping the Academy's policies, directing its exhibitions, and mentoring younger artists. His presidency is notable because he was one of the first American artists to achieve such a high rank in a British institution, reflecting both his personal success and the integration of American artists into the larger European art scene. This position also allowed him to advocate for history painting, which was considered a superior genre, aligning with Renaissance ideals.

In contrast, the other roles like Curator, Financial Officer, and Secretary, while important, do not encapsulate the leadership and vision that West brought to the Academy as its President. His legacy is closely tied to the institution, marking a pivotal time in the art world where he promoted both established and emerging artists.