Journey through history with these iconic visuals, from Melba Mouton at NASA in the 1960s, the controversial Vietnam tape, protests against hijab law, Paris student riots, the immigrant experience at Ellis Island and more.
Melba Mouton, NASA Lead (1960s)
Melba Roy Mouton, an African-American Harvard graduate, led a NASA team of human “computers” in the 1960s. They manually computed complex calculations crucial for successful satellite tracking, greatly influencing the Space Race era.
Johnson Hears Vietnam Tape (1968)
In 1968, U.S President Lyndon Johnson received intimate insights into the Vietnam War through tapes sent by Captain Charles Robb, his son-in-law, who was serving there. This unique connection brought the war’s realities directly into the White House.
Hijab Law Protest (1979)
In 1979, Tehran witnessed an impressive demonstration as 100,000 women boldly protested against the law mandating the hijab, marking a monumental moment in Iran’s history.
Paris Student Riots (1968)
The May 1968 student uprising in Paris ignited nationwide strikes and protests. The Rue Gay-Lussac clashes witnessed toppled cars as barricades, reflecting the widespread unrest against the conservative, capitalistic frameworks of society prevalent during that period.
Ellis Island Immigrants (1905)
In January 1905, an Italian immigrant family embarks on their new life upon landing at Ellis Island, New York City, the iconic gateway for millions of hopeful migrants during that era.
Jim Jones With Two Monkeys (date unknown)
Jim Jones, the infamous cult leader, commonly known as the orchestrator of the Jonestown Massacre, intriguingly kept two pet monkeys, symbolizing his eccentricity and manipulative allure that seduced nearly 1,000 followers into tragic destruction.
Washington University Women Group (1924)
In 1924, George Washington University women campaigned for equal rights, contributing significantly to the feminist movement. Their trailblazing efforts made the university a hub for progressive ideas and gender equality discussions.
Gold Rush Exodus (1899)
In 1899, fortune seekers left the Klondike gold fields, boarding the steamboat Nora bound for Nome, Alaska, hoping to capitalize on another gold rush. Observing the departure, dogs stood vigil by the river.
Woodward Mines Aid Team (1910)
In 1910, the First Aid Team of the Woodward Coal Mines in Kingston, Pennsylvania provided essential, immediate medical assistance to miners, a pioneering initiative in industrial safety during the hazardous early coal mining era.
Dynasphere Car (1930s)
J. A. Purves’ Dynasphere in 1932 was a spherical car resembling a giant tire, operating on the principle of monowheel and driven by a petrol engine. It provided a unique solution to traffic congestion but struggled with directional control.
Circus Peephole (1920)
In May 1920, due to Prohibition, some speakeasies secretly hosted mini-circuses, featuring acrobats and jugglers, offering patrons a glimpse of these illicit performances through a hidden peephole, neatly blending entertainment with a sense of mischievous thrill.
Farewell Kiss (Los Angeles, 1950)
In 1950, an American soldier’s poignant farewell to his girlfriend in Los Angeles marked a personal moment amid the global strain of the Korean War, highlighting the painful human side of international conflicts that often remains unseen.
Futurliner Parade (1939)
The General Motors “Futurliner” bus was an amazing spectacle in the 1939 “Parade of Progress”. This distinctive bus showcased technological advances and cemented GM’s position in industrial innovation.
Link, Thom, Night Flash (1956)
“Link & Thom with Night Flash Equipment, 1956” captures photographer O. Winston Link and his assistant, George Thom, showcasing the revolutionary portable flash equipment used to brilliantly illuminate nocturnal railway scenes during the fading American steam locomotive era.
Cigar Tester in Havana (1960s)
During the 1960s, Cuban cigar factory workers tested the quality of cigars by smoking them, combining skilled craftsmanship with personal experience to maintain Cuba’s renowned standard for top-quality cigars.
Record Shopping (1940s)
In 1944, West Grove, Mississippi became a cultural hub for young music lovers as teenagers gathered at local record stores to explore the latest 45 rpm hits, exemplifying the birth of popular music consumerism in mid-20th century America.
Milkmen Uniform Winner (1972)
In 1972, British housewives chose the winner in the Co-op National Milkmen’s Uniform Design Competition. The winning entry modernized milkmen’s image with a new ensemble that combined utility and style, reflecting fashion trends of the era.
Begin-Brzezinski Chess (1978)
During the 1978 Camp David Accords, Israeli PM Menachem Begin and US National Security Advisor Zbigniew Brzezinski eased tense negotiations through playing chess, symbolizing strategic exchanges that led to the historic Egypt-Israel Peace Treaty.
Tommy Gun Test (1942)
During WWII, women played a significant role in ammunition testing at the Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant. They showcased courage and precision, firing powerful weapons like the Tommy gun to ensure the reliability of ammo before being supplied to soldiers.
Titanic Tragedy News (1912)
Unfortunate news has stricken the bustling lanes of New York City, a city typically consumed by a vibrant energy now somberly absorbing the impact of tragic events, 1912.
