History Photos

Men working atop the New York City skyline in 1925 epitomized the daring spirit of early skyscraper construction, risking heights to build the city's iconic skyline.

The collapse of the Deepwater Horizon rig in 2010 triggered one of the worst environmental disasters in history, spilling millions of barrels of oil into the Gulf of Mexico. The Deepwater Horizon rig's catastrophic failure not only led to immense ecological damage but also highlighted critical lapses in offshore drilling safety protocols. The aftermath of the Deepwater Horizon disaster spurred global scrutiny of corporate responsibility, environmental regulation, and the long-term impacts of industrial accidents on marine ecosystems.

The middle finger from the right hand of Italian astronomer Galileo Galilei (1564–1642) is a secular relic housed in the Museo Galileo in Florence, Italy, encased in a gilded glass egg. In 1737, 95 years after Galileo's death, his remains were moved to a mausoleum at the Basilica di Santa Croce in Florence, during which several body parts, including the middle finger, were removed by antiquarians and anatomists. The finger changed hands and locations several times, eventually being displayed at the Laurentian Library, La Specola, and finally the Institute and Museum of the History of Science in 1927.

Louis Armstrong, renowned jazz musician and cultural icon, performs on the trumpet while accompanied by his wife in front of the Sphinx in Egypt, 1961.

Stephan Bibrowski, known as the "Lion Man," gained fame as a popular sideshow attraction in the early 20th century. Born with a condition called hypertrichosis, which caused excessive hair growth all over his body, Bibrowski embraced his unique appearance and captivated audiences worldwide.

In 1964, amidst threats from both the FBI and the Nation of Islam, Civil Rights leader Malcolm X is captured peering out of his home window while holding a gun.

The Hindenburg disaster occurred on May 6, 1937, when the German passenger airship LZ 129 Hindenburg caught fire and was destroyed during its attempt to dock with its mooring mast at Naval Air Station Lakehurst in Manchester Township, New Jersey, United States. The disaster killed 36 people and effectively ended the era of passenger-carrying rigid airship travel. The phrase "Oh, the humanity!" became famous due to the radio broadcast by reporter Herbert Morrison, who witnessed the tragedy firsthand.

In a epic moment from the 1993 MTV Video Music Awards, drag queen RuPaul is seen holding a crying Frances Bean, daughter of Kurt Cobain from Nirvana, while Cobain stands smiling nearby. This photograph captures a snapshot of what the the 1990s cultural landscape really was, blending music, fashion, and celebrity in a memorable backstage scene.

In a surprising contrast, this photograph from 1926 captures Ku Klux Klan members participating in lighthearted activities at a local carnival in Cañon City, Colorado. Despite their notorious reputation for racial intolerance and violence, the image showcases a moment of community engagement that challenges stereotypes.

The "Kiss of Life" photo, taken in 1967, depicts a poignant moment where electrical lineman J.D. Thompson administers mouth-to-mouth resuscitation to his colleague, Randall G. Champion, after he contacted a high-voltage line. Initially mistaken for a romantic gesture, the photo actually captures a life-saving act during a critical rescue effort. This historic image has become emblematic of the dangers faced by electrical workers and the bravery exhibited in emergency situations.

Before his presidency, John F. Kennedy campaigned as an underdog candidate in West Virginia in 1960. This photograph captures Kennedy's determined effort to connect with voters and overcome challenges on his path to the presidency.

In 1948, George McLaurin, a retired professor, made history as the first Black student admitted to the University of Oklahoma. Despite this milestone, the institution's segregation policies enforced strict separation, keeping McLaurin isolated from his white classmates. McLaurin's journey highlights the challenges faced by early Black pioneers in higher education and underscores the ongoing struggle for equality in America's educational institutions.

In 1966, George Harrison of the Beatles, armed with a fish-eye lens and a fascination for Eastern culture, visited India. This iconic selfie captures Harrison in front of the Taj Mahal, showcasing his exploration of spirituality and music influences from the East.

Johnny Cash prepares to perform during his iconic Folsom Prison concert on January 13, 1968.

In April 1993, Michael Szymansky and his supportive mother participated in the historic 1993 March on Washington for Lesbian, Gay, and Bi-Equal Rights and Liberation, where approximately 1 million people gathered in Washington D.C. This photograph captures a touching moment of familial support amidst a significant event advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and liberation.

Civil rights activist and future congressman John Lewis is seen holding his head during the brutal attack on "Bloody Sunday," March 7, 1965, at the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama. Lewis and fellow protesters faced violence from state troopers as they peacefully marched for voting rights. This iconic photograph captures a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement, symbolizing the courage and resilience of those who fought against racial injustice in America.

During a Ku Klux Klan rally in Gainesville, Georgia in 1992, a toddler dressed in KKK robes wandered away from the crowd and approached a Black state trooper holding a police shield. Captured in a poignant moment, this photograph highlights the innocence of childhood curiosity juxtaposed with the stark realities of racial tensions.

Long before the modern era of selfies, 23-year-old Frank Sinatra captured a self-portrait in a bathroom in 1938. This early example of self-documentation offers a glimpse into the enduring popularity of self-portraits throughout history.

Jacob C. Miller endured a gunshot to the face during the Civil War, miraculously surviving with an open wound for the remainder of his life.

This remarkable photograph, taken in 1899, marks the first-ever picture captured underwater. The image represents a pioneering moment in photography and exploration, showcasing early efforts to capture the world beneath the surface.

Jack Bonavita, a renowned lion tamer and circus performer in turn-of-the-century New York, poses confidently with his lions. Despite his expertise, Bonavita met a tragic end in 1917 when he was fatally attacked by one of his animals—not a lion, but a polar bear. This photo captures a glimpse into the daring world of circus entertainment and the risks faced by performers like Bonavita during this era.

Onna-Bugeisha, Japanese samurai women warriors, were renowned for their fierce combat skills using the naginata, a lightweight sword. This elite class of female fighters played a significant role in Japanese history, embodying courage and martial prowess. Explore the legacy of the Onna-Bugeisha and their impact on samurai culture and warfare in feudal Japan.

In September 1918, two young girls are seen delivering ice in Manhattan, a job previously reserved for men in the United States. World War I created a significant shortage of male workers, prompting women to take on roles traditionally considered unsuitable for them. This image reflects a transformative period when women entered the workforce en masse, challenging societal norms and contributing to the war effort. It serves as a poignant reminder of the pivotal role women played during World War I in reshaping gender dynamics and labor practices in America.

Witness the historic moment as a young boy enthusiastically breaks down the Berlin Wall on November 9, 1989, ending 28 years of separation between East and West Germany. Explore the significance of this event in the history of the Cold War and the reunification of Germany.

View the last-known photograph of Edgar Allan Poe, taken in September 1849, shortly before his mysterious death. Reflecting his enigmatic persona and literary legacy, this image captures Poe in a manner reminiscent of his own haunting tales.

Daryl Davis, known for his decades-long efforts, has made a significant impact by befriending members of the Ku Klux Klan and encouraging them to abandon the organization. Through his unconventional approach, Davis has facilitated dialogue and fostered understanding, leading to several individuals renouncing their affiliation with the Klan. His work stands as a testament to the power of dialogue and empathy in confronting extremism and promoting societal change.

In early 20th-century mining was a important branch of the industry, and here you can see how Belgian coal miners are packed into elevators after their shift, circa 1920. Looking at their eyes you can see the glimpse into their daily lives and challenging conditions and camaraderie among them.

In 1961, 19-year-old East German border guard Conrad Schumann made a daring escape to the West, captured in the iconic "Leap Into Freedom" photo. Despite his dramatic flight, Schumann struggled with the pressures of his fame and tragically died by suicide in 1998.

In 1925, a diphtheria outbreak in Nome, Alaska prompted a heroic serum run by dog teams, including the famous Siberian Husky, Balto. This photo features musher Leonhard Seppala with his sled team, led by Togo, who ran the farthest distance during the lifesaving mission

During World War II, the Pacific Theater saw immense devastation. In September 1945, a group of emaciated Australian soldiers were photographed drinking tea following their release from a Japanese prisoner-of-war camp. This image highlights the severe conditions endured by POWs and underscores the broader impact of the war in the Pacific region.

n April 5, 1976, Ted Landsmark, a Black lawyer, was attacked during an anti-busing protest in Boston. The protesters, enraged by the prospect of desegregation, assaulted Landsmark as he unknowingly walked through their demonstration. This incident was immortalized in a Pulitzer Prize-winning photograph titled "The Soiling of Old Glory," which depicts a man attempting to impale Landsmark with an American flag. The image became a powerful symbol of the racial tensions and struggles for civil rights in the United States.

In 1926, workers bravely scaled the Woolworth Building in New York City, one of the tallest skyscrapers of its time. Without modern safety equipment, they navigated dizzying heights, showcasing the era's bold architectural ambitions.

In 1899, the legendary sharpshooter Annie Oakley demonstrated her unparalleled skills by hitting bullseyes while aiming through a hand mirror, showcasing her remarkable precision. Renowned for her exceptional marksmanship, Oakley could effortlessly shoot targets behind her back and perform daring feats that captivated audiences across the United States.

Since 1914, archaeologists have been intrigued by Easter Island's iconic statues, known for their towering heads. However, lesser-known are the buried torsos that accompany these monoliths. This ongoing archaeological investigation reveals more about the island's ancient civilization and their monumental stone guardians.

Martin Luther King Jr. spent his life advocating for the rights of Black Americans. But in his downtime, he was also a talented pool player. Here he is making a trick shot in 1966.

Jubilant crowds filled Times Square in New York City to capacity as news of World War II's end spread. The iconic photograph captured the overwhelming sense of relief and joy felt by Americans on August 14, 1945, marking the surrender of Japan and the official conclusion of the war.

In 1892, a small crowd gathered to pose in front of the majestic California sequoia tree known as "Mark Twain." Sadly, this 1,300-year-old, 331-foot-tall giant had been felled by the U.S. Army the year before. The cutting down of such a revered natural wonder sparked outrage and highlighted early conservation efforts, underscoring the importance of protecting these ancient trees for future generations.

On November 14, 1960, six-year-old Ruby Bridges made history as the first African-American child to desegregate William Frantz Elementary School in New Orleans. Accompanied by a federal agent for protection, she faced a hostile reception from a screaming mob of protesters. Bridges' bravery in attending school despite the adversity symbolized a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement, highlighting the ongoing struggle for racial equality in the United States.

The guillotine, often seen as a relic of the past, remained in use in France long after the French Revolution. The photograph captures the chilling moment of the final public execution with the guillotine, when serial killer Eugen Weidmann was executed on June 17, 1939. Shockingly, France continued to employ this method of capital punishment until 1977, marking a haunting chapter in its history.

On August 14, 1989, amidst the volatile era of the Troubles in Northern Ireland, a poignant scene unfolded as a young Irish teenager confronted two heavily armed British troops. In a striking display of defiance, the teenager's scream resonated with the deep-seated tensions and frustrations of the conflict. This moment encapsulates the raw emotions and stark realities faced by communities during this turbulent period of Northern Ireland's history

In December 1983, American actor Mr. T brought holiday cheer to the White House by dressing up as Santa Claus. Initially met with reluctance from guests to sit on his lap, the atmosphere changed when First Lady Nancy Reagan joined in, playfully embracing the festive spirit with a kiss on Mr. T's forehead. This heartwarming encounter became a memorable moment, blending celebrity charm with presidential hospitality during the holiday season.

On August 6, 1945, amidst the final days of World War II, the United States unleashed unprecedented devastation on Nagasaki, Japan, with a nuclear bomb. The catastrophic event obliterated the city, instantly claiming the lives of at least 70,000 people. This haunting photograph captures the aftermath near the Urakami Cathedral, showcasing the profound impact of the atomic bomb on the city and its inhabitants.

Colonel Sanders, recognized worldwide as Kentucky Fried Chicken's iconic mascot, was inspired by the chain's founder, Harland David Sanders. Originating in the 1930s, Sanders began selling his signature fried chicken at a gas station in Kentucky. His recipe and entrepreneurial spirit laid the foundation for what would become a global fast-food phenomenon, showcasing his dedication to quality and taste that continues to define KFC today.

During World War II, a Polish unit adopted a bear named Wojtek into their ranks, where he became a beloved mascot known for his unusual habits like drinking beer and smoking cigarettes. Wojtek's unique role included being officially enlisted with a rank and serial number, symbolizing the bond between soldiers and their unlikely companion during wartime.

In a historic moment captured at Queen Elizabeth II's 1953 coronation, a visibly bored Prince Charles stands between his grandmother, the Queen Mother, and his mother, Queen Elizabeth II. This candid photograph offers a glimpse into royal family dynamics during a pivotal event in British history. Today, Prince Charles serves as the King of the United Kingdom, continuing his family's legacy of leadership and public service.

New Yorkers pause in Times Square to watch the last episode of Seinfeld, the iconic "show about nothing" that ran for nine seasons and ended in 1998. The sitcom, created by Jerry Seinfeld and Larry David, became a cultural phenomenon, renowned for its witty humor and portrayal of everyday life in New York City.

Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow were notorious American outlaws during the Great Depression, known for their bank robberies and violent crime spree across the central United States. Their criminal activities captured the public's imagination, with photos like the one where they goof around with a rifle, discovered at a crime scene, further fueling their infamous reputation. Their exploits were widely covered in newspapers, making them infamous figures in American criminal history before their deaths in a police ambush in 1934.

In Nikola Tesla's laboratory,circa 1894, the renowned inventor conducted tests with electricity alongside his friend, the famous writer Mark Twain. This collaboration highlighted the intersection of science and literature, showcasing their mutual fascination with technological advancements and intellectual exploration.

At the original 1969 Woodstock festival, hippies were selling LSD for just one dollar. This low-cost access to the psychedelic drug contributed to the event's famously free-spirited and experimental atmosphere.

During World War I, Arthur S. Mole and John D. Thomas created remarkable images using thousands of uniformed sailors and soldiers. One famous photograph, taken in July 1918 at Camp Dodge, featured 18,000 soldiers posing as the Statue of Liberty to promote war bonds. Despite the extreme heat causing many soldiers to faint, the detailed and intricate formation showcased their patriotic dedication.

In 1989, a decorated World War II veteran, who lost his legs in combat, receives a salute from young sailors in Leningrad, Soviet Union, now known as Saint Petersburg, Russia.

Sawai Ram Singh II (28 September 1833 – 17 September 1880) ascended as Maharaja of Jaipur at just 16 months old following his father's death, ruling from 1835 until 1880. His reign was marked by sweeping reforms influenced by Western ideals and British preferences, including the establishment of new departments, reorganization of the police force, and the construction of roads to foster economic development. He also modernized Jaipur with initiatives such as schools, colleges, gas lighting, piped water supply, and focused efforts on women's education, alongside his passion for photography, ushering in a transformative era of progress for the city.

This took place during the often forgotten Italo-Ottoman war. Some reports indicate that the Italians had been accused of sexual assault against the locals though this is unproven. The IV Battalion of the 11th Bersaglieri Regiment of Colonel Gustavo Fara had been positioned at the small oasis village as part of the defenses of Tripoli. On 23 October, the force of about 500 Italian soldiers came under attack from the Turks and Arabs and was quickly overrun and decimated. Approximately 290 'bersaglieri' who survived the initial assault surrendered to the jihadists in the local cemetery, but all were tortured and killed.

Luisita Leers, born into a circus family, inherited her acrobatic talents from her mother, Gertrude Reichenbach. In the 1920s, she made a significant impact on the circus world with her remarkable strength and acrobatic skills, defying norms with her muscular physique, a rarity among women of her era.

Photograph of the royal painted portrait of Queen Victoria that was sent to India to mark her rule as Empress of India.

This memorial is titled Above and Beyond, and its located in Harold Washington library, downtown Chicago. It has 58,307 dog tags made by Rick Steinbock, and veteran artists Ned Broderick, Joe Fornelli and Mike Helbing. Dog tags were all made on an original military stamping machine, and each shows the name, date of death, and branch of a soldier that died in the war.

In 1876, the construction of the hand and torch of the Statue of Liberty took place in Paris, France. This iconic symbol of freedom and democracy was crafted by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi. The intricate detailing and symbolism embedded in the hand and torch reflect Bartholdi's meticulous craftsmanship and vision for the colossal statue destined for New York Harbor.

Mister Rogers received a letter from a blind girl who was concerned about his fish, as she had heard him mention them. Worried that they might not be getting fed, he started a heartwarming tradition. At the conclusion of each subsequent show, he would narrate, “I'm feeding the fish.”

In Greek mythology, Leda, queen of Sparta, captivated Zeus, the king of gods, who often assumed animal forms to seduce mortals. This tale depicts Zeus as a swan, embraced by Leda as she shields him under her cloak. Discovered in Rome in 1775, this first-century Roman statue is a rendition of a Greek original attributed to Timotheos from the 300s B.C. Over two dozen examples of this statue survive, showcasing its popularity among Romans. Timotheos's style is evident in the contrasting drapery on Leda's torso and legs, balancing concealment and revelation of the female form, typical of 4th-century B.C. sculpture.

This photograph, captured by Henry P. Moore at Hilton Head, South Carolina, portrays a substantial group of slaves on the seven-hundred-acre Fish Haul Plantation owned by Thomas Fenwick Drayton. Dedicated primarily to cotton production, the plantation housed fifty-two slaves who worked and resided there. Moore's documentation from this era provides insight into their living conditions and includes scenes of cotton processing, illustrating a moment when these individuals were transitioning to freedom under federal decree.

Photograph of a painted portrait depicting Napoleon Bonaparte, later known as Napoleon I, Emperor of the French, depicted as a youthful figure adorned in a military jacket adorned with medals.

A woman stands gracefully, her left hand raised while holding an open fan in her right. Beside her on the floor, there's a small brazier with a tea kettle resting atop it.

This leaf illustrates a scene from the life of Saint Jerome (about 341 - 420), depicting his compassionate act of removing a thorn from a lion's paw. Saint Jerome's figure dominates the foreground, showcasing his delicate handling of gold tweezers as he tends to the injured animal. In the background, a monk approaches with ointment and a bandage, emphasizing the saint's caring nature and the lion's peaceful submission. This artwork likely originated from a large miniature or initial in a gradual commissioned for the Camaldolese monastery of San Mattia in Murano, renowned for its exquisite illumination by the Master of the Murano Gradual, celebrated for his expressive figures and intricate drapery.

The Greater Panathenaia, a state religious festival honoring Athena, featured athletic and musical competitions every four years in Athens. Prizes included distinctive Panathenaic Amphorae, adorned with black-figure depictions of Athena and awarded for prestigious events like the four-horse-chariot race. Commissioned by the state and painted by leading artists such as the Kleophrades Painter, these vessels symbolized excellence and were highly valued despite their primary content being Athena's sacred olive oil.

The iconic Hollywood Sign, originally erected in 1923 as "Hollywoodland," has become a globally recognized symbol of the entertainment industry's epicenter. Over the decades, it has evolved from a local real estate advertisement to an enduring cultural landmark synonymous with glamour and cinema history.

During the "great toilet paper crisis" panicked shoppers flooded supermarkets, desperate to secure supplies of toilet paper amid fears of shortages.

In 19th century China, the cangue was a severe form of punishment involving a large wooden board with a hole for the neck, designed to immobilize and publicly shame criminals. This punishment was commonly used for both men and women.

Auschwitz was the largest of the Nazi concentration and extermination camps, where over 1.1 million people, mostly Jews, were murdered during World War II. Located in occupied Poland, Auschwitz has become a symbol of the Holocaust's atrocities and is now a solemn memorial and museum.

General William T. Sherman was a prominent Union leader during the American Civil War, known for his "March to the Sea" campaign, which significantly contributed to the Union's victory. His military strategies emphasized total war, targeting not only enemy troops but also the economic infrastructure supporting them. Sherman's leadership and tactics left a lasting impact on modern military doctrine and are studied extensively in military history.

Back before street sweeper vehicles inspired dance-like automotive choreography and shenanigans, the streets were kept clean with a literal 2-horse-powered street sweeper cart, seen here in this vintage photograph from around 1905. What’s ironic here is that the street sweepers were there to wash away horse urine and feces, yet were also pulled by two horses!

The 1920s saw a surge in the popularity of swimming, driven by several factors. Public swimming pools became more accessible, and the era's emphasis on physical fitness and leisure contributed to swimming's appeal. This period also witnessed the rise of swimming as a competitive sport, with the Olympics featuring swimming events that garnered significant public interest.

The construction of the RMS Titanic, one of history's most iconic ships, began in 1909 and was completed in 1912. Built by the Harland and Wolff shipyard in Belfast, Ireland, the Titanic was a marvel of engineering and luxury, representing the pinnacle of early 20th-century shipbuilding. This comprehensive guide delves into the meticulous process of constructing the Titanic, highlighting the technological advancements, craftsmanship, and labor that went into creating this legendary vessel.

During the harrowing years of World War II, a group of fearless Russian female pilots, known as the "Night Witches," carried out daring bombing missions at night. From 1941, these remarkable women played a crucial role in the Soviet war effort, striking fear into the hearts of their enemies and earning their legendary nickname. The Night Witches, or the 588th Night Bomber Regiment, were an all-female squadron of pilots, navigators, and ground crew. These courageous women volunteered to fly outdated Polikarpov Po-2 biplanes on nocturnal bombing raids, targeting German military installations, supply depots, and troops.

Olympic-class ocean liners, crafted by Harland & Wolff for the prestigious White Star Line. This legendary class included three iconic ships: RMS Olympic, RMS Titanic, and HMHS Britannic. Launched in 1910, the RMS Olympic served from 1911 to 1935, renowned for her luxury and resilience, earning the affectionate nickname "Old Reliable." The RMS Titanic, launched in 1911, met a tragic fate on her maiden voyage in 1912 after colliding with an iceberg, prompting crucial maritime safety reforms. The HMHS Britannic, launched in 1914, became a hospital ship during World War I and sank in 1916 after striking a mine.

In March 1942, LIFE magazine chronicled the daring morale-boosting efforts of actress Marilyn Hare at a southern California army encampment. Determined to uplift spirits during wartime, the 18-year-old embarked on a mission to kiss 10,000 soldiers, drawing on her father's legacy of spreading joy. With her infectious enthusiasm and catchy tunes like "Kiss the Boys Goodbye," Marilyn charmed troops across the camp, leaving a trail of 733 kissed soldiers in her wake. Her unconventional approach not only garnered attention but also left a lasting impression on morale, proving that a little cheer can go a long way in times of national crisis.

Icelandic Strongman icon Jón Páll Sigmarsson captivated global audiences in the 1980s with his extraordinary strength and charismatic persona. Renowned for his record-breaking feats and engaging performances, Sigmarsson's legacy remains a beacon of inspiration for strength athletes and fans of strongman competitions worldwide.

Fidel Castro and Che Guevara forged a powerful alliance during the Cuban Revolution, aiming to overthrow Fulgencio Batista's regime in 1959. Guevara, an Argentine revolutionary, became Castro's trusted comrade and played a pivotal role in the revolution's success. Their partnership symbolizes a significant chapter in Latin American history, inspiring movements for social justice and revolution worldwide.

Ceaușescu and his wife Elena fled the capital by helicopter to their residence in Snagov and then to Târgoviște. After abandoning the helicopter, they were captured by the police and handed over to the army. On Christmas Day 1989, they were tried by a mock court, found guilty of various charges, and executed by a firing squad. Their hasty trial and execution were televised, marking a dramatic end to their rule and a pivotal moment in Romanian history.

Samurai archers were master warriors, renowned for their exceptional skill with the bow and arrow. They played a crucial role in battles, combining precision and strength to dominate their enemies from a distance. As symbols of honor and tradition, these archers represented the elite warrior class of ancient Japan.

Douglas Bent captors called him "The Stupid," thinking he was unintelligent. Instead of talking, he just hummed a song. In reality, he was faking it. During his time in captivity, Bent tricked his Vietnamese captors into believing he had a mental disorder. When he was freed and returned to the U.S., Bent shocked everyone by reciting the names of about 256 missing POWs. He had memorized their names by linking them to the tune of "Old McDonald Had a Farm," the same song he hummed the whole time.