The Hudson River School was an American art movement in the mid-19th century, known for its romantic landscape paintings. Artists in this movement focused on the beauty of nature, particularly the scenery of the Hudson River Valley and surrounding areas. They aimed to capture the sublime qualities of the American wilderness, emphasizing light, color, and atmosphere. Key figures of the Hudson River School included artists like Thomas Cole, the movement's founder, and Frederic Edwin Church, known for his large-scale works. The movement played a significant role in promoting the appreciation of the American landscape and influenced future generations of artists.