Venture back in time with a captivating collection of images encapsulating poignant moments in history, from valiant French WWI soldiers to inspiring LGBTQ+ activism and groundbreaking technological achievements.
French Soldiers WWI (1914)
In 1914, French soldiers, known as ‘Poilus’, marched off to WWI in bright red pants and blue jackets, a Napoleonic-era uniform, leading to high casualties as their outfit making them clear targets, prompting a swift change to a less conspicuous blue-grey.
Pennies at Union Station (1938)
In 1938, Washington D.C. saw a trend where tourists tossed pennies to African American children in a fountain near Union Station. This was considered entertainment, embodying prevailing racial and social inequalities of the time.
Harvey Milk at Pride Parade (1978)
Harvey Milk, a gay rights activist and the first openly gay elected official in California, was part of the San Francisco Gay Pride Parade on June 23, 1978.
San Francisco Earthquake & Fire (1906)
On April 18, 1906, the San Francisco sky was engulfed in smoke due to an earthquake, triggering devastating fires. This catastrophic event marked a seminal moment in the city’s history.
Empress Cixi Portrait (1900s)
Fascinating portrait of the renowned Chinese female ruler, Empress Dowager Cixi, known for her distinctive attire, jewelry, and influence over late imperial China.
Comintern’s Chen Vang (1923)
In 1923, Ho Chi Minh, alias Nguyen Ai Quoc or “Chen Vang,” attended the Communist International in Moscow, shaping his revolutionary ideologies which later led to Vietnam’s independence from French colonial rule.
Fort Guard, Atlanta (1864)
In 1864, the Union Army lay siege to Atlanta, a key Confederate stronghold. The capture of such forts symbolized critical moments in the American Civil War, shifting momentum towards the North and hastening the end of slavery.
Ping Pong on Set (1968)
While filming “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid”, Robert Redford and Paul Newman took a break to engage in a lively ping pong match, showcasing their off-screen camaraderie and athletic prowess, making for an iconic and enduring behind-the-scenes image.
Soldier Soups Girl (1944)
In August 1944, amidst chaos and strife, a British soldier displayed humanity by brewing soup for an injured French girl in Caen after the city’s liberation, embodying kindness and compassion amidst the brutality of World War II.
Irish Prayers for Truce (1922)
In 1922, the Irish community in London gathered outside Downing Street to pray for the success of Truce negotiations, symbolizing a unifying, universal hope for an end to the tumultuous Anglo-Irish conflicts.
Lindy Hop Victory (1953)
Lee Moates and Tonita Malau triumphed in a 1953 Lindy Hop contest at the Savoy Ballroom, Harlem, the heart of New York’s jazz scene. Their impressive showcase beautifully captured the exhilarating energy and rhythm of this iconic dance era.
Oklahoma Dugout (1900s)
The Oklahoma dugouts of 1900s represent an ingenious solution by homesteaders to combat harsh weather and scarce materials. They were essentially homes, dug into the earth, providing settlers with natural insulation and protection from the elements.
Panama Canal Build (1912)
In 1912, construction on the Panama Canal peaked under United States’ supervision. Engineers conquered Malaria and Yellow Fever, overcome geological challenges, and deployed innovative lock and dam system shaping modern maritime commerce.
Lapize Atop Aubisque (1910)
Octave Lapize, while climbing the Pyrenees in the historical 1910 Tour de France, berated race organizers for the grueling route, calling them “assassins”. He won that year, overcoming the introduction of high mountain stages.
Soldier’s Recovery (1916)
This 1916 photo showcases the critical role of the American Ambulance Hospital in Neuilly, France, during WWI. It aided soldiers’ recuperation, highlighting humanity amidst war, forming a cornerstone in American-French relationships during the era.
Gismo Robot Triumph (1955)
In 1955, a 14-year-old genius won Ford’s Industrial Arts Competition with a $15 homemade robot named Gismo. Exhibiting walking, talking, and arm-waving abilities, Gismo showcased the initiator’s prodigious talent in the rapidly advancing field of robotics.
Unrest Arrest (1936)
In 1936 London, amid a demonstration by jobless citizens, a protester found himself under arrest by local law enforcement. This period was defined by social unrest as the Great Depression affected the UK.
Edward & Wallis Jump (1958)
In 1958, former King Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson, symbolizing their controversy-sparked freedom, joyously jumped for famed photographer Philippe Halsman, resulting in an iconic image reflecting a pivotal moment in royal history.
Tour De France Spectators (1939)
Viewers of the 1939 Tour De France witnessed a legendary cycling event. This race marked the last Tour before an eight-year hiatus amidst global conflict.
Cornell Varsity Crew (1911)
In 1911, the Cornell Varsity Crew established a remarkable reputation in rowing, winning multiple regattas, demonstrating strength and endurance, and defining Cornell’s legacy in collegiate rowing.
