From the first woman in a bathing suit to Marilyn Monroe before she rose to the pinnacle of fame, we reveal some of the most controversial, euphoric, intriguing, and shocking photos to be taken in the 20th century.
Hello Norma Jean, 1944
The former brunette, Norma Jean Mortenson, had a difficult childhood, which saw her move from foster home to foster home in her formative younger years. By age 16, she was married and hidden from the world, working in a U.S. military factory. Little did she know that fame was waiting for her just around the corner, and in 1944, her life changed forever.
At just 18 years old, young Norma Jean was introduced to a photographer from the U.S. Army Air Force’s First Motion Picture Unit at work. This meeting led to a successful pin-up modeling career and some film contracts, and eventually, she signed with Fox in 1951. She became one of the most famous stars in Hollywood. Her appeal was unrivaled, even against the exotic European beauties of the time.
Float Like A Butterfly... Sting Like Ali!
Talk about the right place at the right time; this image has to be one of sporting history’s finest moments! Neil Leifer, the photographer for "Sports Illustrated" at the time, was THE man to capture the moment Muhammad Ali knocked out Sonny Liston. This image has gone to be plastered over walls, caps, t-shirts, and any other printable memorabilia. As far as sporting images go, this one really does take the championship belt.
It was a story that would make David and Goliath seem like a children’s fable when the 23-year-old Muhammad Ali took on the 34-year-old “Big Bear." In 1964, Ali and Liston had a rematch, and despite a controversial ending, it went for a record 2:12 into the first round. In the iconic shot above, photographer Leifer is recorded to have said, “I was obviously in the right seat…but what matters is I didn’t miss.”
The Boys of the Hollywood Canteen
The Hollywood Canteen, which operated in Hollywood during World War II, acted as a watering hole for servicemen on their way to war. Free food, drink, dancing, and entertainment were on offer for the soldiers. Bette Davis was one of the driving forces behind the operation of the “canteen,” which drew thousands of servicemen. It provided an outlet and motivation for the boys before they went out to serve their country.
While the majority of the patrons were American, it was an inclusive institution, open to both servicemen and women of all the Allied countries. And if this photo didn’t make it clear, many of the women working there were celebrity volunteers, which certainly helped to boost morale. Celebrities like Bette Davis, Marlene Dietrich, and Rita Hayworth all visited the club at one point.
Baby Jolie
Frequently topping the lists of Hollywood’s most celebrated women is none other than the seductively beautiful Angelina Jolie. And with parents like hers, we’re thankful she took after her mother! The daughter of Hollywood power couple Jon Voight and the gorgeous Marcheline Bertrand, Jolie has a singular beauty. With huge blue eyes and large, bountiful lips, all atop a slim-hipped but full-busted body, Jolie is a true knockout. Here we see her as just a baby with her famous father.
But being beautiful doesn’t guarantee an easy life, especially when it’s lived among the flashing lights of Hollywood. Known for her tempestuous relationship with heartthrob Brad Pitt, their love was nothing compared to the relationship with her father, Jon Voight. Confused? Same. But it seems that despite the bad blood, in 2018, apparently, the pair reconciled. How? Through the lens of art. Jolie told The Hollywood Reporter, “we don’t really talk politics well…we talk art very well.”
The Star Wars Cast
We love this image because it takes us back to where it all began. Since the original trilogy was introduced to audiences in 1977, Star Wars has garnered a cult following. Revived over thirty years later by Disney, Star Wars fans were created in the next generation, continuing the franchise’s legacy. Young and fresh-faced, you'll see a lanky Harrison Ford and a bright-eyed Carrie Fisher, as well as Mark Hamill and Chewie!
The 2015 reboot saw our favorite characters return, albeit a little older. "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" and "The Last Jedi" re-introduced Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, Chewbacca, and Princess Leia. The brilliant thing about reviving a cult classic in the era of social media is the abundant memes. There’s also somewhat of an obsession with Anakin Skywalker’s brutal transformation into Darth Vader, as well as the face-off between Obi-Wan Kenobi and General Grievous.
The Listening Booth, 1955
Record label His Master’s Voice (HMV) had a brilliant idea of how to make it possible for people to sample their goods before taking them home – a trial run, if you will. Introducing the vinyl listening booth! Throughout the U.K. and Canada in the 1950s, HMV record stores saw hundreds of customers flocking to try out the listening booths to listen to the latest songs in these sound-isolating booths.
In the 50s, having the luxury of being able to goof around inside one of these record store booths was one of those simple luxuries. No headphones are needed; listeners could freely enjoy their favorite tunes of the moment in their own little sanctuary. Bring back the listening booth, we say!
Babe Ruth, 1927
George Herman “Babe” Ruth Jr. is remembered as one of the legends of the game. With a 22-season career, the New York Yankees’ star outfielder began his long career as a wondrous left-handed pitcher. But funnily enough, he actually made his debut with the Boston Red Sox. The Baltimore-born Ruth was nicknamed “The Bambino” or the “Sultan of Swat” and was actually inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame as one of the founding members.
With 714 career home runs, 2,062 bases on balls, and a slugging percentage of .690, there are some stats that even the modern-day greats can’t contest. Regarded as one of the greatest sportsmen in all of American history, Ruth is also considered to be the best player of all time. He remained a part of American culture and was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Hippos Can Surf Too!
While, at first sight, you might find this image amazing or even hilarious, there was an even deeper message in taking and distributing this photo. Michael Nichols captured this alongside National Geographic Society explorer Michael Fay while they trekked an exhausting 2,000 miles from the Congo to Gabon. Seeing these two hippopotamuses swimming in the Atlantic Ocean was surely quite bewildering, and Nichols had a message to deliver.
With their rivers and lakes destroyed, the hippos have been pushed out to the oceans, forced to adapt and live in an area that they are not biologically constituted for. This image is truly one in a million but actually led to real change. Former President of Gabon, Omar Bongo, upon seeing this image, was inspired to create a national park system. This move sees 11 percent of Gabon being protected, ensuring that the wild animals are able to continue living untouched and peacefully.
Annette Kellerman and Her Fitted One-piece Bathing Suit, 1907
*Gasp* A woman exposing her body!? It’s 1907, and boy, was there a change a-coming. Australian professional swimmer, actress, and writer (and clearly very accomplished woman) Annette Kellerman are pictured here as a fearless female leader. One of the first to bravely wear the one-piece swimsuit, she became something of a fashion designer too, with demand increasingly high for her swimsuits!
Labeled the “Annette Kellermans,” these bathing-suit-wearing divas were a topic of controversy, which took over the radio waves across the world. In 1907, in Revere Beach, Massachusetts, the Australian was arrested for “indecency.” But they say there’s no such thing as bad publicity because this occurred at the height of her popularity, which sent sales flying! If those officers saw the swimsuits kids are wearing these days, they’d go into cardiac arrest.
The iPhone and its Maker, 2007
This image, taken in 2007, was accompanied by a famous line, “Today, Apple is going to reinvent the phone.” CEO and Apple founder, Steve Jobs, made history on that platform and did indeed transform the way we use and understand phones. Over ten years down the line, Apple is still reinventing the phone.
Phones have evolved from simply being used for talking and texting to practically becoming minicomputers with a price tag to match. With a sleek design and a portal to the rest of the world at your fingertips, this photo was just the beginning of phone technology. Who knows what Apple will come up with within another ten years.
Hollywood Royalty Meets Real Royalty, 1956
Below, the Queen of Hollywood at the time, Marilyn Monroe, met the late Queen Elizabeth II. To think that the pair of influential women were the same age is quite astonishing. But that also made the late Queen the longest-reigning monarch, seeing many decades pass and being present for countless historical landmarks.
You might think the Royals are locked away in their age-old fortresses, guarded by the highest security and constantly moping about, but that was certainly not the case. The pair actually met one another at a film premiere, to which Monroe was accompanying her husband at the time. The women in this photo were both just 30 years old. A meeting of two legends in their own right. Quite remarkable.
The Beginning of an Era, 1999
Google is a household name these days. It’s even become a verb. But something this huge had to start somewhere, and here’s the photographic evidence. This photo was taken of two early Google co-founders and heavyweights, Larry Page and Sergey Brin, in one of the server rooms.
Google has gone on to become the dominant search engine with access to billions of web pages. It is the most-used search engine worldwide. Both Page and Brin each have a net worth of over $100 Billion. Fun fact, Google was originally called "Backrub..." Yes, you read that right.
Elizabeth Taylor’s Kitty, 1953
With her violet-hued eyes, delicate facial features, and voluptuous body, Elizabeth Taylor is one of the screen sirens of Hollywood. With her start as a child actress in the 1940s, it seemed she would follow the usual trajectory and end up married with children. But not for Taylor. As an adult, she blossomed, as did her beauty and career. In 1999, Taylor was named the 7th greatest screen legend by the American Film Institute and frequently tops lists regarding the Golden Era of Hollywood.
Whilst she often played the seductive yet quick-witted woman in her roles, she also had a soft spot. For cats. In this image, captured in 1953, you see her coyly posing with an adorable kitten poking its head and mittens out of her pocket! At the time, she was filming "The Girl Who Had Everything." But let’s be real here; that’s one pretty lucky kitty!
The Beatles, 1964
Harry Benson, the iconic photograph below, is one of those that people just can’t get enough of. The subject of the image? Only the hottest pop-rock band in the world at the time: The Beatles! Staying in the obscenely expensive George V Hotel in Paris in 1964, the Beatles were only just getting a taste of the fame to ensue. The night this photograph was taken was the same night the “Fab Four” found out that their song “I Want to Hold Your Hand” went No.1 in the United States.
But perhaps the best part about this photograph’s story is that Glasgow-born Benson wasn’t interested in the band at all and wanted to cover a story in Africa instead. But after an encounter with the band and their music, Benson was mesmerized, so he stuck it out with them, taking countless photographs. This is just one of many, but it perfectly captures the excitement and happiness of the moment.
Shirley Temple, 1949
One of history’s most iconic and endearing child actresses, Shirley Temple's spirited acting and singing routines provided a welcome escape from the darkness of the Great Depression. At 21, Temple posed for a number of publicity photographs, such as this wonderful yet bizarre photo snapped in 1949. Below we see Shirley in a Thanksgiving-themed photo, with none other than the crowning dish of the feast: a turkey.
This probably wouldn’t fly as good marketing with vegetarian and vegan activists today, but back in the day, this was perfectly comical! With a career beginning at age three, she, unlike many other child actors, managed to grow her career in another direction. Temple went into diplomacy and served as the U.S. ambassador to Ghana under the Ford administration, as well as later on to Czechoslovakia under George H.W. Bush.
A Gentleman, 1910
The image of this doctor captured in the 1910s shows that your man has no excuse not to look dapper as hell! But there may be something else that’s gotten your attention. If you didn’t think doppelgangers were a real thing, think again. Doesn’t this man look exactly like celebrated actor Brad Pitt!?
With his piercing eyes and light locks, this Pitt resemblance has sent us reeling! They do look uncannily similar, which is quite something, given this photo was taken 53 years prior to Brad's birth. It’s quite likely that a couple of decades ago, there was a photograph taken of someone who looks exactly like you!
The King’s Autograph
When someone refers to “The King,” they’re undoubtedly talking about the King of Rock and Roll: Elvis Presley. With a reach like no other artist before or after him, he is remembered as a legend in his own right. Before he had truly reached stardom, here he is pictured signing autographs for his fans.
Part of what was a golden age for music, Elvis was a pioneer in the Rockabilly style - a genre that fused country with rhythm and blues. His goal was to imbue popular music with African American music, and once America heard his new take, they were hooked. Selling a staggering amount of records which, in a time before instant downloads, was a massive feat, Elvis will remain one of the highest-selling artists of all time.
Earthrise, 1968
Ah, our beloved planet Eart. This photograph, dubbed "Earthrise," was taken during the first lunar orbit mission by Astronaut William Anders on the 24th of December 1968.
The image was so impactful that it's been credited with igniting the global movement to protect the planet and the environment.
Mother of… Bambi? Miss Audrey Hepburn Shopping with Her Pet Deer, 1958
Style icon Audrey Hepburn was a woman of many talents, but she also had a number of eccentricities. Among her small menagerie of pets, Audrey Hepburn kept a deer. During the filming of "Green Mansion" in 1959, Audrey chanced upon this beautiful little deer. Due to her role in the film alongside Bambi, the animal trainer on set thought it would be a good idea to take her little friend home so she could teach it to follow her!
The deer, which she affectionately called Pippin, or ‘Ip’ for short, grew so attached to Hepburn that it began to mistake her for its mother. Her naturally calm nature and soft-speaking voice made the baby deer feel quite at home, despite the fact Audrey didn’t actually have any caramel-colored fur! The baby deer would cuddle Hepburn and go with her on trips to the grocery store.
Halsman, Dalí, Water and Cats
Before Philippe Halsman and surrealist Salvador Dalí decided that tossing three cats into the air for the renowned Dalí Atomicus was a grand idea, the Spaniard somewhat eccentrically suggested they blow up a duck with dynamite. We’re kind of glad it didn't happen, and they stuck with the cats. After 26 attempts, Halsman decided he had finally begun to see the “real essence” of Dalí.
To execute the photograph, Halsman’s wife and daughter stood out of the frame and threw the cats and water into the air while Dalí jumped. This idea of “jumpology” was employed by Halsman to capture the “true spirit” of his subjects: “When you ask a person to jump, his attention to detail is mostly directed toward the act of jumping, and the mask falls so that the real person appears.”
Going Coco-nuts at the Cocoanut Grove
It was clear that the Ambassador Hotel’s business was booming, but they were simply running out of space to hold all their patrons! With a mixture of Hollywood’s esteemed movie crowd, as well as the folks of the country club, management made the executive decision to convert the hotel’s ballroom into the 1,000-seat Cocoanut Grove. A premier nightclub, this Los Angeles nightspot did a roaring trade back in the day. It even served as the location for the 1939 Academy Awards. Swish!
A theatre of grand proportions, the who’s who of Hollywood glided down the grand balustrade into an adult wonderland that would shake the foundations of Las Vegas’ night strip! Mechanical monkeys, palm trees, and ceilings lit up like the night sky. Sometimes the mechanical monkeys were real monkeys, occasionally let loose on the floor of the nightclub by the proprietors, the Barrymore brothers. We don’t doubt that plans for a quick drink would unravel devastatingly fast!
‘I Have A Dream' 1963
Easily one of the twentieth century’s most influential and revered speakers, here we see the iconic Martin Luther King Jr. delivering his equally iconic ‘I Have A Dream’ speech. Delivered in 1963 on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, the eloquent young orator told the world of his dream, inspiring and empowering generations to come.
This speech touched hearts across the country, both black and white. His struggle against segregation and activism for peace were rewarded; in 1964, King won the Nobel Peace Prize for combating inequality through nonviolent resistance. Whilst he was barely 40 years old when he was tragically assassinated, he is still remembered today as an influential figure who changed the course of history.
Shia LaBeouf
Now this image sits outside our twentieth-century photographs, but it still makes the list for its powerful cultural statement. Shia LaBeouf used his celebrity status to deliver more powerful messages. After acting for a few years and growing wiser, he became bolder and more peculiar with his public appearances. At a movie premiere in 2014, LaBeouf rocked up wearing a paper bag over his head.
On the bag was a very clear message: “I am not famous anymore,” all written in upper case letters. Not sure if he’s loopy or not, but one thing’s clear: Hollywood clearly got to him. In a way, it shows that actors and actresses, despite awards and appearing in films, have an expiry date, a time when they’re “not hot” or “not celebrated.” He might not be so famous anymore, but hey, at least he’s received a few hefty paychecks to enjoy his “infamous-ness” comfortably.
Cobain and Love with Their Mini-Me
With a power-couple quality likened to that of John Lennon and Yoko Ono, albeit a touch more grunge, next up, we have Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love, with their little love Frances Bean Cobain. They were the King and Queen of the 90s, with their faces plastered on every wall, up until Kurt Cobain’s death in 1994. Joining the famous '27 Club,' Kurt Cobain sadly passed away after taking his own life.
A tumultuous relationship that was heavily covered by the media saw a more reclusive Cobain check into rehabilitation facilities more than a few times, often being reported by his wife as someone who could harm himself. Despite his untimely death, the 27-year-old’s music is still played today. His daughter Frances continues down the creative path, as a visual artist and model, with looks that bear a striking resemblance to her famous parents. Now, that’s a legacy.
Beatlemania!
Arguably the most iconic rock band in history, The Beatles formed in Liverpool in 1960. After four years of jammin’ and rock and rolling,’ the band of four took the international stages by storm. The “Fab Four” were trailblazers, helping pop music evolve and grow, incorporating unconventional recording techniques and some experimental music styles. This photo of them in their youth really takes us back to the swinging 60s.
Their fresh-faced boyishness and catchy melodies shot them to international fame, taking their Please Please Me tour throughout Europe. Selling a mind-blowing 800 million albums worldwide, it’s no wonder they were included in Time magazine’s list of the 20th century’s 100 most influential people. But looking back here, these young kids would’ve just been there for the ride with no real idea of what was to come.
Arnold Schwarzenegger in NYC, 1968
For the Eddie Murphy fans out there, this was certainly Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Coming to America moment, as the “Austrian Oak” touched down on U.S. soil for the very first time in 1968. The professional bodybuilder-turned-action movie star was an overnight sensation in the U.S. Below; he appears rather goofy dancing to the sounds of disco in a New York dance club.
Schwarzenegger immigrated to the United States after becoming the youngest bodybuilder to ever win the Mr. Universe title. But it seems that after winning the competition, Arnold had his sights set on the flashing lights of Hollywood. It didn’t take long for him to find success since he was truly one-of-a-kind. Little did he know that one day he would be known as the “Governator” of California.
Veronica Lake and Her Famous Golden Locks
One of Hollywood’s most famous blonde bombshells (and we ain’t talking about Marilyn Monroe) is the gorgeous Veronica Lake. However, her real name was Constance Frances Marie Ockelman. Quite a mouthful, right? Throughout the 1940s, Lake experienced great success owing to her great talent, garnering both popular and critical acclaim for her various film roles.
Her famous “Golden Locks” or ‘peek-a-boo’ hairstyle became something of a trademark. However, all that glitters is not gold, and unfortunately, Lake had a drinking problem which led to something a lot direr. In some ways, the iconic actress is often forgotten behind the scandal and great beauty of Monroe, but we know that Lake was a driving force behind the leading ladies of Hollywood, and no discussion of the Golden Age is complete without mentioning Lake!
A War Vet to the Rescue
U.S. Marine Frank Praytor probably had no idea of the reception this photograph would have back home while he was serving as a combat correspondent in Korea. Shown here nursing a kitten, he took it upon himself to take a couple of newborn kittens under his care. In a time of war and chaos, it would’ve given him that morale boost to get him through.
Photographers were always on the lookout for images that would be favorable back home to show the kind side of a war that was undoubtedly horrific. This image appeared in over 1,700 newspapers and definitely pulled on the heartstrings of the public, not to mention the ladies! Women from all over the United States actually sent love letters, asking to marry him!
Is it Còke or Coca Cola? 1950
After the Allied victory in World War II, Coca-Cola decided to bring its carbonated drink to France. The fizzy drink had been available well before the 1950s, and while the rest of the world was enjoying it for decades, France was left in the dark. People received it with skepticism at first, but it soon became a bubbly celebration. The men in the photo here are clearly eyeing the unknown substance with suspicion.
Coca-Cola introduced itself to France with the slogan “Drink Fresh,” touring the streets, handing out free samples in what Coke now calls “La Rèvolution du Froid” or “The Cold Revolution.” In 1945, a clever ad campaign played on the sentimentality of the French, with salesmen wearing plain boiler suits designed to remind Parisians of the Americans liberating Europeans at the end of the war.
The Kennedy Wedding, 1953
At just 24 years old, Jacqueline Bouvier wedded the future President of the U.S., John F. Kennedy. Bouvier was 12 years his junior! Around 2,000 fans stood outside the church, while 800 attended the beautiful reception at Hammersmith Farm — a 300-acre farm owned by the family of Jackie’s stepfather. No doubt it was a fancy, elegant affair, and why not? Bouvier was a socialite in her own right, and Kennedy had just been elected to represent Massachusetts.
Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy was a woman of grace and great beauty, and she had a wedding to match. Her stepfather, Hugh Auchincloss, gave her away in an ivory silk dress with a stunning portrait neckline and bouffant skirt. The happy couple left shortly after the wedding reception for their honeymoon in Acapulco, Mexico. We love the mirth and glee on the couple’s faces. Unfortunately, however, this was to last only ten years before the famous tragedy hit Jacqueline and the US.
Consumer Society
Mass consumerism and resultant excess are trends that don’t seem to know how to slow down in our modern world. Andreas Gursky’s century-turning photo encapsulates these feelings and ideas perfectly. Aptly named '99 Cents,' this image of 1001 consumer products paradoxically became the most expensive contemporary photo purchased at one point in time.
The photograph is a collage of sorts, consisting of multiple images taken in a discount “99 Cents only” store in Los Angeles and meshed together using graphic design software. If you really concentrate on the photo, it turns into an illusion of sorts. The endless hypnotic rows of merchandise with consumers poking their heads among the shelves become a colorful mixture of reality and fiction—the image sold for a record-breaking $2.3 million at auction.
All the Way With LBJ!
Hours after one of the world’s most powerful nations was struck by tragedy, the U.S. acted rapidly, installing Lyndon Baines Johnson as the 36th President of the United States. Following the assassination of the beloved John F. Kennedy, Johnson assumed the presidency in 1963. This image immortalizes the moment Johnson insisted that the former president's wife join him in the capital mere hours after she lost her husband.
Johnson’s wife, Lady Bird Johnson, described the scene as such: “Jackie Kennedy remained composed, immaculate…and exquisitely dressed.” Known for her elegance and grace, the former First Lady kept it together even in an extremely distressing and heartbreaking time. Jackie Kennedy was keeping calm in a time of crisis because she knew the eyes of the American people were fixed on her to gauge their own responses.
The End of World War II
It was Truman who announced the good news to the United States of America. As the wartime President, it was only right that he told his country of Japan’s surrender. The whole world rejoiced. Hollywood was certainly known for its parties, so it only fitted that a big bash was held to celebrate this triumphant victory. The spectacle inside the many clubs, as well as the debauchery, would have been quite something.
People rejoiced in the streets, and crowds waved banners and sang loudly. Confetti was strewn in the air, on the footpaths – there was certainly no raining on their parade during this joyous historical moment. We’re talking about the 1940s or the “Roaring Forties” when Hollywood was enjoying its golden moment. There’s just something about images of gleeful moments; it makes you immediately feel a part of their joy and happiness.
The First Walmart, 1962
Mr. Sam Walton was just your run-of-the-mill salesman with nothing else but thoughts of the American Dream in his head. In 1962 he took the plunge and opened Walton’s Five-and-Dime. Who would’ve thought this would turn into the mega-franchise it is today? Mr. Walton knew that slow and steady wins the race, taking his time to build his brand and empire. From humble beginnings, as shown in this picture, the unremarkable store grew into a major American supermarket.
The first store opened on July 2nd, 1962, at 719 West Walnut Street in Rogers, Arkansas. Wal-Mart Stores Inc. grew rapidly from this discreet store, with business booming within two decades. It became one of the world’s largest corporations by way of revenues, and at one stage, Sam Walton was the richest man in America. Today, Wal-Mart brings in a revenue of $500 billion. Now, doesn’t that make this photo even more extraordinary?!
W-W-W-W-Wipe Out! 1938
Tom Blake was a trailblazer in the surfing world, introducing the sport to California in 1931. Creating the very first hollow surfboard, Blake was going to go down in history. It was Blake who completely changed something the Hawaiians held closely to a national sport, which became incredibly popular around the globe. Here we see a group of surfers learning the ins and outs of the sport.
It’s one of the few sports that created its own culture and lifestyle. While it originated in Polynesia and onto the high-class Hawaiians, it was soon adopted by Americans, Australians, and many others. Blake didn’t stop at the surfboard, though; he also invented rescue paddleboards using the same design principles, as well as the first “torpedo” rescue buoy.
Cell Phone Camera, 2000
We’re going to take you back to the year 2000, to a time when camera phones didn’t exist and the Internet was still being tweaked. Well, that’s until Philippe Kahn came along. A tinkerer by trade as a software entrepreneur, Kahn was working on tech that could share images instantly.
Here we see Kahn demonstrating how to use LightSurf Technologies Inc.'s latest (at the time) wireless digital camera attached to a portable wireless cellphone. After some slight refinements, he made a deal with Sharp, which used his technology to release the first integrated camera phone in Japan.
Liberation!
A scarce photo in history, this photo was taken in 1945 when the Jewish prisoners from the internment camp were finally freed from the clutches of the German regime. The allied forces got to them on time.
The top part of the image shows, "The photograph inserted below was taken by Major Benjamin at the moment the first of the refugees at the train became aware of their liberation and started to move up the hill toward our troops."
Jimi Hendrix
This image says a lot about the late Jimi Hendrix. It’s powerful because it was taken before his untimely demise at the age of 27 in 1970. We all know that he was an extremely talented guitarist and influenced many people during his reign.
He also sang and performed his own music, which makes him one of the greatest in music history. In fact, he was even inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for his contributions to music during his career. Awesome indeed!
Victory over Japan
Ah, who could forget this memorable moment in history? We have all seen this photo somewhere on the internet, and it has been proven to be one of the most viewed kissing scenes around the world. This was V-J Day or otherwise known as “Victory over Japan Day,” which was marked by the beginning of the end of World War II.
When the announcement was made that the US won, this sailor grabbed a total woman stranger and kissed her in the middle of Times Square in New York City on August 14th, 1945. Now, you might be wondering who took the photo. Well, his name is Alfred Eisenstaedt who just happened to capture this picture at the right place and at the right time.
Before the Iceberg
Here we see another photo of the R.M.S Titanic as it sailed its way from South Hampton to New York City. Before the dreadful sinking of this glorious ship, it was scheduled to set sail on April 10th, 1912, and on April 14th, 1912, just a few days after it left South Hampton, the thought to be “indestructible” ship hit an iceberg that pierced a hole in the frontal area of the ship and made it sink.
The ship hit the iceberg at exactly 11:40 P.m. and sank along with over 1,500 passengers who died because there weren't enough lifeboats to save everyone on board. Can you imagine? A total of 2,224 people were on board that boat and only a few made it out alive. Such a sad day for humanity.
Boston Marathon
Did you know that in 1967 the famous Kathrine Switzer was flagged down by a bunch of organizers during her Boston Marathon? Yes! That’s right. In this photo, we can see those exact people halting her from crossing the finish line. Of course, in their desperate attempt to do so, it only proved unsuccessful, and she ended up becoming the first Swiss woman to cross the Boston Marathon finish line.
Fortunately, none of these sexist situations are no longer applicable to this day, and nothing can stop a woman from attempting a feat like this. You go, girl!
Road Rules
Did you guys know that Sweden used to be like England? With drivers allowed to drive on the opposite side of the road? Well, in 1967, Sweden changed its traffic laws to resemble the rest of the Western world.
It seems like a disaster waiting to happen, but they crashed into a few issues (pun totally intended). Obviously, as you can see in the photo, there was a huge traffic jam accident after the country shifted its driving laws from the left side to the right side. It's a little hard to believe that these countries could allow such laws to be established without causing an accident.
Martin Luther King Jr.
Martin Luther King Jr. was one of history’s iconic role models. In this photo, the late civil rights leader is seen with his son on the front lawn of his home, taking a burnt cross out of his grass. Being the calm and loving person that he is, he took the cross off his lawn after it was burnt there by white supremacist individuals trying to make a statement.
He is a tough man, and removing the cross from his lawn did not seem to bother him much, and he did this all while his son was watching him take it out.
Bathing Suits
Have you ever experienced that embarrassing moment when your bathing suit would fly? Although at the present day, that can never happen, back in the 1920s, there was an official person at every beach with the authority to measure the women’s bathing suits to make sure that it was long enough and not considered indecent.
If you really think about it, people back then were very strict with women’s attire at the beach; if it was considered too short, she would be fined a hefty fee. The feminist in us rejects this idea, and if it were to happen at present, we are all pretty sure that there will be some people objecting to it.
Berlin Wall
Do you know what the Berlin Wall was made for? Well, in this photo, we see the Berlin wall when it was built back in 1961. This wall was made to separate East Germany and West Germany. It was built by the German Democratic Republic to cut off the Western part of the City. It was both an ideological and physical barrier.
In this rare image, you can see the eastern side working to build the wall while the other side started to wonder what was going on.
London, 1940
In this photo, we see a little girl sitting on the ruins of her destroyed home while holding her favorite doll, trying to comfort herself. It seems like such an emotional photo, but that’s because it is. It gives you all kinds of feelings. This happened right after a bomb landed in London in 1940.
These bombings were done by the German Army and were known to be called the Blitz as part of World War II. Hopefully, this little girl turned out okay.
Disneyland Plans, 1954
It's hard to imagine a world without Disney, be it the nostalgic cartoons from our childhood like Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck or, more recently, "The Avengers" franchise. However, a Disney fan favorite has to be the epic Disneyland and Disneyworld amusement parks around the world.
This photo shows Disneyland's history in the making. We see Walt Disney himself along with his "Imagineers" as they perfect the plans for the first Disneyland amusement park in Los Angeles.
Hindenburg Disaster
No, this photo is not of the Titanic. Although it looks quite similar, this is a photo of the Hindenburg Disaster taken on May 6th, 1937. This sensational photo occurred when the German airship carrying many passengers caught fire when it was trying to dock at a Naval Air Station, Lakehurst, in New Jersey.
A total of 36 people were killed in the fire, but thankfully 62 people survived. The event was marked by photographs, newsreel coverage, and eyewitness testimonies that were recorded and played back on the radio to this day. Such a rare opportunity to take this kind of photo. Amazing!
Charlie Chaplin
Have you tried to imagine Charlie Chaplin before he became a star? We are all so used to seeing him with this signature mustache, hat, makeup, and attire, but in this rare photo, we see him totally raw. Here we see his 27-year-old self in 1916 before he became famous for his silent movies.
Before he became well-known for his silent films, he was a writer, filmmaker, composer, and writer, among other things. His comedic timing during the silent film era in Hollywood helped him rise to fame, which we all know him to be to this day.
Elvis in Uniform
Who could forget the reign of the Rock and Roll King, Elvis Presley? We bet it’s hard to imagine him in uniform after all his cool outfits, huh? In this rare photo, we see him in his military uniform, together with other soldiers walking somewhere on the base.
Quite a long time before his career shot to fame, this photo was taken in 1958. Of course, he seemed like such a young man in this photo, and we are all not used to seeing him this way. It’s quite refreshing.
The Statue of Liberty
In this amazing photo, we see a young child and a woman standing beside her face as it is being assembled in France. At the time, it was being prepared for shipment to New York so that it could be displayed as a gift to the United States.
Although this has been one of the greatest moments in history, it seems a little disturbing to only take a photo with the statue’s head. This photo was taken in 1885, which also shows women’s style back then. A very rare photo indeed!
Rainey Bethea
This rare picture you see is the last known public execution in America. The last person to be hanged like this was Rainey Bethea on August 14. It was an item of personal interest and controversy because Bethea was to be hanged by Florence Thompson, who was at the time the sheriff of Davies County. The former policeman of Louisville, Arthur L. Hash, was offered to pull the trigger for her, and she willingly accepted her fate.
America was disappointed because, on the actual day of execution, hash showed up drunk and missed his shot. It was a sad day for everyone!
America's Greatest Creation
Mount Rushmore was truly one of America’s greatest creations. In fact, it was even supposed to be much larger than it originally is. In this photo, we see the monument’s designer Gutzon Borglum is seen scrutinizing the scale model.
Sadly, this scale model was never continued because the project ran out of money.
Atomic Bomb
Ever wondered what an Atomic Bomb would look like when it blows up? In this photo, we see the nuclear testing at the Bikini Atoll program, which was a series of 23 nuclear devices detonated by the United States between the years 1946 to 1958. It seems a bit scary that it was detonated so close to neighboring islands, but these weapons were tested on the reef itself and in the air.
This all started in July of 1946 with Operation Crossroads. Don’t worry, though, because all the islands were uninhabitable because of all the radiation, which stemmed mostly from cesium-137. The island of Bikini Atoll is one of the 23 islands that consisted of the Marshall Islands in the Pacific Ocean. Now, that’s a photo we don’t see every day.
Behind the Photo
Are you guys a fan of the Beatles? Do you remember their famous pedestrian crossing album cover? Well, here’s a little secret for you, when the Beatles shot their iconic Abbey Road cover in 1969, the primary album photo had to be retaken a number of times for it to be exactly perfect for the cover.
Wait for a second in this photo; they were going the wrong way! Check out the photo; here’s Paul, George, Ringo, and John making their way back across the street for another take. They must have had quite a number of bloopers in this shot before getting the right one.
Americans Leaving Vietnam
A lot happened in the 1970s. In fact, there were a lot of significant and dramatic moments in history. America’s departure from Vietnam was considered one of the saddest and most heart-wrenching moments of the 1970s, as you can see in the photo.
Seeing as a lot of people tried to fly out of the country and escape, they clung to the final chopper for dear life but unfortunately got punched and kicked for their efforts to board it.
The Moon, 1972
Have you ever wondered what would happen if you leave something personal on a place like the moon? Here’s proof that whatever you leave on the moon will stay there. In 1972, Astronaut Charlie Duke went to visit the Moon on Apollo 16.
Before his trip, he decided to take a photo with his wife and two kids. He left the photo on the surface, where it still remains to this day, along with his footprints. He also had a lunar rover along with him on his trip, and you can see the tracks in the photo on the corner.
The Cape Canaveral Missile Test Annex
In September of 1962, John F. Kennedy and Lyndon Johnson received a tour of the Cape Canaveral Missile Test Annex. In the photo shown above, it's kind of hard to imagine seeing both the President and Vice President in the same room as all the other members of the administration, let alone getting along with one another.
It’s rare, because this barely happens, and as you can see, everyone seems to be in a heated argument already. What do you guys think of this photo?
The Real Anastasia
Were you a fan of the Disney film Anastasia growing up? That story was actually based on a real-life story. Of course, it wasn’t exactly the same, but it came pretty close. This photo shows a photo of Tsar Nicholas II’s missing daughter Anastasia as he playfully holds a cigarette to her mouth before she went missing.
During the revolution of 1917, Nicholas was executed along with his entire royal family, but since his daughter went missing, there were rumors that she had survived the slaughter and vanished.
Lewis Payne
Remember the most memorable tragedy in the United States? This photo was taken when confederate veteran Lewis Payne was waiting for his sentence after breaking into the home of William H. Seward, the Secretary of State, the night Abraham Lincoln was shot.
Kind of amazing how this photo was taken of him, and we all thought that not a lot of photos like this would be taken.
The Mona Lisa
Have you guys been to Paris? Have you been to the Louvre? There are many rare paintings in that museum. However, everyone always noticed the Mona Lisa. In this photo, she is seen being returned to the museum after World War II ended. Since they were worried for her safety and to make sure that she wouldn’t get stolen, The French had decided to hide her in the countryside, where she will be safe to wait out the war safety.
Of course, the Mona Lisa is one of the most valuable paintings in history; certainly, if something were to happen to it, the French would go ballistic!
The Statue of Liberty
Have you ever imagined the Statue of Liberty being constructed? Did you know it was initially built in France before finding its way to New York?
Well, this photo is a rare look at the statue as it was being built before getting carefully shipped and pieced together on her pedestal. Here you can also see her left hand cradling the tablet while the workers constructed the rest of her parts in 1884.
Pablo Escobar's Mug Shot, 1976
The most notorious dealer in history was Pablo Escobar. Not only is he infamous for the mass amount of wealth he accrued from illegal dealing, but also for his contentious relationship with the police.
This mugshot of Pablo Escobar was taken in 1976 shortly after he was captured by Medellín police. What's particularly striking is his smile. Many have speculated this was due to the fact that Escobar always knew that he had enough power and money to bribe his way out of any situation.
Helen Keller & Charlie Chaplin
Were you a fan of the silent movie era in Hollywood? If you were, then you’d be happy to see this photo. This rare image shows a very young Helen Keller, seated center, with the amazing Charlie Chaplin.
In 1919, he was considered the golden star of the silent movie era. Helen Keller could not see or hear either, so, you can guess why Charlie Chaplin became the king of silent movies.
The MGM Lion
Does anyone remember the Lion in Hollywood movies during the late 80’s and 90s? Here’s a rare photo of the MGM lion preparing to roar before the beginning of every movie. This was released in the studio in 1928. Wanna know the name of this handsome Lion? His name is Jack.
MGM actually gave all of their pet lions the name “Leo.” but only the real one was named that. Cool!
The Prohibition
Have you ever seen Boardwalk Empire? Well, this photo shows alcohol being poured from out a window during a prohibition. Of course, any business owner will go through all kinds of trouble to make sure that their business thrives.
Sadly, these business owners’ ideas were cut short. After police had found out about the illegal business going on inside an apartment, naturally, they had to dispose of the booze. As we mentioned, prohibition was ultimately unsuccessful in the long run because many people draw parallels between contemporary recreational drugs and alcohol.
Roller Skating at the Disco, 1979
Ah, the Disco Era! Who could forget all the roller skating and the constant need to disco? Certainly, this is one of those photos that we just can’t get enough of. Did you know that roller skating was invented in the 1930s?
Although it was first introduced during this time, it never really became as popular as it was in the 70s. We have DISCO to thank for that! Yay! In this image, we can see a group of people, dressed head-to-skate in 70's attire at the Roxy Roller Disco in New York City in 1979.
Buster, the Roller-Skating Rooster
If there was such a thing as roller skating popularity back then, you would never believe your eyes when you see this photo. Here you will see Buster, the roller-skating rooster. Yes, you read that right, a rooster named Buster!
This photo was taken on Aug 17, 1952, during the time Buster made his way between a girl’s legs during a photo session with the former Los Angeles Times staff photographer Leigh Weiner. Now, there’s a talented rooster!
Muhammad Ali's Mother, 1964
Muhammad Ali was no doubt one of the greatest boxers of all time. Do you want to know how he trained for each fight? Before he became who he was, he was Cassius Clay.
In this rare photo taken inside Ali's home, we see him seated next to his mother, Odessa Grady Clay. The image portrays a far softer side of the boxing powerhouse.
Jimi Hendrix's Final Concert,1970
This is an image of Jimmi Hendrix playing his guitar with his teeth. It's a powerful image not only because it portrays his rebellious nature but also because it was taken during his last performance before his untimely demise at the age of 27 in 1970.
He sang and performed his own music, which makes him one of the greatest in music history. In fact, he was even inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for his contributions to music during his career.
Queen Elizabeth
Here’s an interesting discovery for you, World War II had a lot of significant moments, but one photo that we just can’t seem to wrap our minds around was this one. Did you guys know that the late Queen Elizabeth used to serve in the Women’s Auxiliary Territorial Service?
This comes as a huge surprise, because of course, who would have thought that the Queen of England would look absolutely dashing in uniform? During the Second World War, she serviced and drove trucks for the army. Sure, she may have been out of the action, but she still looks like royalty in a uniform!
Robert Downey Jr.& Mike Tyson
It’s amazing; who knew Robert Downey Jr. and Mike Tyson had been friends for the longest time? In this photo, we see them posing with each other. In Mike’s words: “When there was no fighting or training, I would stay in the city at Steve Lott’s apartment. Many times I would visit Columbus Cafe, owned by Paul Herman and Mikhail Baryshnikov. It was located on Columbus Avenue near Lincoln Center.
The Cafe drew many famous actors, actresses, models, musicians, and athletes. Here’s a shot of a very youthful Robert Downey Jr. His comedy with Rodney Dangerfield, “Back to School,” was playing in theaters. His career skyrocketed. You must see one of his last movies, “The Judge,” with Robert Duvall - a powerful film.”Coming from Mike Tyson’s words, he truly idolized Robert as a great actor and friend.
Ham the Chimp
Have you heard of the first chimp to go to the moon? Do you want to know his name? Here we see Ham the Chimp, AKA Ham the Astrochimp, the first Hominidae in space. On January 31, 1961, he was first launched from Cape Canaveral. Thankfully, he returned to Earth largely unharmed apart from a little bruise on his nose.
If you are also wondering where he got his name, he was named after the Holloman Aerospace Medical Center in New Mexico. No wonder this chimp became so famous! He certainly deserves his fame!
Salvador Dali & Raquel Welch
Have you guys heard of Raquel Welch? This adorable woman, as you can see in the photo, was one of the most desired women in the 60s. In this photo, we see the famous painter Salvador Dali who painted a portrait of Welch.
Because of her gorgeous looks and figure, it really does make a lot of sense why Dali would paint such a portrait of her or would be infatuated with her as the rest of the world. After finishing the portrait, Dali gave her a kiss on the hand to thank her for posing for his painting.
The Birthday Procession of Queen Elizabeth
Visiting London has its perks. If you were one of the few lucky people to experience those stiff guards outside Buckingham Palace, then you might have wondered how they could withstand harsh weather conditions, like standing under the scorching sun or standing under the pouring rain.
In 1970, during the Birthday Procession of the late Queen Elizabeth, one of the soldiers fainted. It even happened at the worst possible time because as she was passing by, the soldier fell flat on his face. We don’t blame this guy for not being able to control himself; standing in a heavy uniform on a hot sunny day is indeed a challenge.
The Original Ronald McDonald
Scared of clowns? Maybe don't look at this photo, then. For those of you who stayed, can you guess who this character is? Hard to believe, but this was the original Ronald McDonald. Creepy, but ture.
This is what the fast-food mascot looked like in 1963. Here we see him with a tray of fries and drinks while waving at the crowd and the photographer. Back then, his face featured a cup for a nose and clown-y face paint. Fortunately, he looks a lot different today.
Spray Tanning in the 60s
Have you tried going to a tanning salon to get a tan? Nowadays, the quickest way that you can get a tan is through your local tanning salon. If the beach is not an option for you, this would be your quickest way to an even tan. Want to know how they did it back then?
In 1949, men and women went to a special place to get their skins darkened. In this photo, we see a blonde woman holding a nozzle that is connected to a machine that sprays her skin with tinted tan color. Amazing! Does this sound and look familiar? Yup! It’s exactly the same only the machine is different.
Albert Einstein
Oh, look, it’s Albert Einstein as never seen before! What a treat! This photo was taken in 1939 in Nassau Point on Long Island, New York. Einstein is the brilliant man behind the theory of relativity and was the Nobel Prize winner in Physics back in 1921. Who can forget all of his contributions to science?
“For his services o theoretical physics and especially for his discovery of the law of the photoelectric effect” Seeing Einstein in a pose like this relaxed and enjoying the beach is a total surprise, well compared to how he is usually documented, this is totally better!
Andre, the Giant
This is just adorable! This image shows a young boy who is completely in awe before Andre the Giant’s sheer height. Did you know that this guy was over 7 feet and 4 inches tall? Even better, did you know that he was a wrestler and an actor at the same time? No wonder this little boy showed so much love for him.
In case you were wondering, his most famous role was in the film "The Princess Bride," where his gigantism, caused by an excess of the growth hormone came to good use. Of course, this little boy did not understand a thing, but his face surely shows his love for this gentle giant, and we totally agree with him!
Woodstock
1969 was an iconic moment in music history. The Woodstock festival was all about peace, love, and fashion. Trends that started there shaped our culture for decades. It was a time when people realized they had the power to change history.
It was a platform for the 1960s culture. It embodied people's thoughts about the Vietnam War, which were controversial and polarizing back then. It had a significant impact on civil rights and the acceptance of others.
Michael Jackson — Singer-Songwriter
The King of Pop needs no introduction. With a career spanning five decades (despite passing at the age of fifty-one), his album “Thriller,” had an absolutely astounding seven top-ten singles on the “Billboard” Hot 100, and it garnered an incredible eight Grammys.
Putting aside controversy and rumors, and not to mention failing health for a number of reasons, his legacy lives on nearly every time you turn on the pop stations. He left his mark on music history, and it is unlikely that anyone will ever do that the same way he did.
Sacheen Little Feather
Back in the old west, Native Americans were subject to a wide array of brutal treatment for many centuries. In this photo, we see Sacheen Little Feather, who became one of the leading activist voices for Native American civil rights.
Little Feather gave a speech at the 45th Annual Academy Awards in 1973, acting on behalf of actor Marlon Brando. Brando declined the award for Best Actor in an act of protest against the treatment of Native American people in the show business industry.
Live Aid
On Saturday, 13 July 1985, music brought a significant impact with the goal of raising awareness of the Ethiopian famine crisis of the 1980s, which claimed an estimated 1 million lives. It was a 16-hour musical extravaganza hosted in Philadelphia and London that brought together some of the 1980s' finest performers.
It generated cash to deliver food, medicine, and other vital supplies for the crisis, becoming one of the world's biggest and most successful charity events.
The Mamas & the Papas
Who are these fine people? They are John Phillips, Denny Doherty, Cass Elliot, and Michelle Phillips, better known as the band The Mamas & the Papas.
Their iconic folk-rock sound became one of the driving forces of the counterculture movement in the 1960s. Beginning in 1966, the group's five albums sold almost forty million records worldwide. They had a total of seventeen singles, six of which made the Billboard top ten.
Planet of the Apes (1968)
There are plenty of sequels, prequels, and reboots now, but when "The Planet of the Apes" first came out, it was a worldwide blockbuster. Apes have taken over the world, and astronauts who have returned are now stuck in their clutches. In this image, we have Charlton Heston, co-star Linda Harrison, and the ape that holds their chains.
This famous story all started with French author Pierre Boulle's 1963 novel "La Planete des Singes." It's an old movie, but the ending is still so famous, we won't worry about spoiling it for you here.
Strike the Pose
There is no need to introduce the magnificent Nadia Comaneci. The Romanian wonderchild scored the perfect TEN, which was never scored before. This image says it all. How astonishing the human body is, and how much strength is needed for this pose.
At first, we thought the photo was taken horizontally and then simply turned around, but no. Nadia Comaneci was this strong and held this position with her own amazing body. All boundaries were crossed when it came to human abilities.
Bonnie and Clyde
No matter what generation you belong to, there’s no doubt you’ve heard of the infamous bank-robbing couple: Bonnie and Clyde. The young lovers wreaked havoc together for years, refusing to let anything or anyone stand in their way.
There is so much more to their story than the surface of what you see when they’re referenced. They are the most romanticized criminals in history and were idolized by many.
John F. Kennedy's Funeral
This photo is probably the most heartbreaking one. Here we see a very young John F. Kennedy Jr. saluting his father alongside his mother, Jacqueline Kennedy, during his father’s funeral. The thing that captures our hearts the most is the fact that such a young boy can do such a mature thing as saluting in a serious manner like an adult.
This is definitely something hard to watch, and we are sure that Jacqueline's half-hidden face is also a sight that is hard to see.
Hampton Students Studying Telephone Assembly
After the 13th Amendment was passed, the Hampton Normal and Agricultural Institute were opened with the sole mission of educating those who were previously enslaved. However, it broadened its mission to simply provide African Americans with an education.
In this instance, the students are busy learning the ins and outs of telephone assembly. With Benjamin Franklin Johnston’s photograph, we witness a historical landmark — the true impact of Lincoln’s 13th Amendment. This photograph was taken more than 30 years after the 13th Amendment became a constitutional right, right at the beginning of the 20th century.
Nikola Tesla in His Laboratory
You have probably seen this iconic photo. This scene captured here looks like something out of the movie “The Prestige.” Or rather, the movie seems to resemble Nikola Tesla’s Laboratory. What is interesting is that the scientist/inventor took this photo to demonstrate how safe alternating current is. 250,000 volts of alternating current, to be more precise!
Clearly, it was safe because Tesla had time to write, perhaps, a bit of journaling or a crossword puzzle. Who knows? Tesla may have proved how reliable this type of electricity was, but sadly we went with Edison’s invention.
August Landmesser
This photo has certainly been spotted before, but few people know the identity of the man refusing to do the salute. On June 13, 1936, this photograph was taken at a German navy training in Hamburg. The man in the picture refusing to salute is August Landmesser.
One of the reasons why Landmesser was unwilling to participate in the salute was that he was involved in a relationship with a Jewish woman, Irma Eckler. Sadly, for his transgressions, Landmesser was sent to prison, and he was later killed after being conscripted unwillingly into the German military.
Frida Kahlo
For a couple of seconds, you might be wondering which of the people in this photo is the Mexican painter Frida Kahlo. The correct answer is the center one. Here we see a picture of Kahlo dressed up like a man.
Though the Mexican painter was only 19 years old in the photo, we already see a side of Kahlo that is both open and experimental. This photo was taken by Guillermo Kahlo on February 6, 1926, in Mexico.
Marilyn Monroe
This actress is the quintessential blonde bombshell, and this one iconic image of her has stood the test of time. Except, it is not this one per se. This one is a photo of the actress during the filming of a scene of “The Seven Year Itch” where she is speaking to her co-star, Tom Ewell.
The photo that became iconic is when the blower from the subway grate activated, lifting the actress’s skirt. Taken more than 50 years ago, it is unlikely this photo will ever disappear from collective memory.
Margaret Hamilton and Software Listings for Apollo
Born in Paoli, Indiana, in 1936, Margaret Heafield Hamilton would later become one of the most accredited computer scientists. She became the director of the software division at MIT. Yet, her most important feat was creating the flight software for the Apollo Mission with her team. In the photo, Hamilton is standing next to the listings for the Apollo program.
That being said, the Apollo project and onboard flight software had several hiccups, but thanks to Hamilton and the Apollo team, the project was mostly a success. Also, Hamilton has been credited with creating the term “software engineering.”
The Old Stockholm Telephone Tower
Here’s a rare photo of the old Stockholm Telephone Tower. This amazing tower was built in the Swedish Capital of Stockholm. It was primarily used to connect more than 5,000 telephone wires shortly before the telephone companies started burying their wires.
Since most people didn't like the look of it (because of the danger and the eye sore), the tower burned down in 1953. Could you imagine that many wires above your head and not get anxious that they might randomly fall on you? It’s not a good sight to look at definitely.
The Baby Cage
Okay, this photo is a little nerve-wracking, and it certainly takes anyone by surprise. In the past, people used baby cages like this one which was meant to make sure that children were getting enough sunlight and fresh air. Seems a little dangerous, but that’s how people used to do it back then.
This photo was taken around the year 1937 in a high-rise apartment building. Thank goodness there are no more contraptions like this today, or we would all be dying of a heart attack. This was definitely one crazy invention!
Walter Yeo
This photo seems scary, but don’t get scared. Here you can see Walter Yeo in 1917. He was an English sailor during World War I who received a very bad facial injury and needed serious reconstructive surgery. As you can see, Yeo was thought to be one of the first individuals in the world to ever receive facial reconstruction by using a skin flap.
At the time, this type of advanced plastic surgery still did not exist, making his case the first in history. As you can see in the photo, it was a success!
Christmas During the Great Depression
The Great Depression was one of the momentous times in history that occurred in the US between 1929 and 1939. In this photo, we see some young children enjoying their Christmas dinner. This was during the Great Depression, so they were served cabbage and turnips as their Christmas feast.
No wonder it was called the Great Depression because, during those years, the only food that was sourced regularly was cabbage and turnips, which were both cheap and accessible. Sadly, many people during this time did not know how to care for their children and suffered due to the lack of proper food.
An Icon, A Legend
Can you name a more iconic revenge look than Princess Diana’s little black dress? Nope, didn’t think so. It was dubbed the “Revenge Dress” for crying out loud! Diana stepped out in this off-the-shoulder Christina Stambolian dress for a gala at London’s Serpentine Gallery in June of 1994. But this wasn’t any old red carpet-event.
Diana made this public appearance on the very same day that her ex-husband Prince Charles publicly admitted to cheating on her with his now-wife Camilla Parker-Bowles. Instead of hiding from the public eye, she got the world’s attention with her head held high in this stunning, form-fitting gown. Diana’s “Revenge Dress” is a masterclass in using fashion to convey a message. Even after all these years, we can all agree that she looked absolutely immaculate.
Armistice Day
October 1918 was momentous for world history. A depleted and defeated Germany approached the United States about signing an armistice. British soldiers on the frontlines had already begun to sense a shift in the air. Could it be? Was the war truly ending? Their hope was realized on November 11, 1918, when an armistice was signed at Le Francport near Compiègne signaling the end of World War I.
This photo captures that occasion. We see nurses and soldiers in complete elation celebrating the end of the Great War. As these professionals were serving on the frontlines and had firsthand experience with the horrors of the war, it is little wonder that they were in a state of utter jubilation. What makes this photo more momentous is that it was taken just outside of Buckingham Palace in London – a rare find in the Buckingham collection.
Freddie Mercury Lived with Ten Cats
As if he wasn’t interesting enough already, Freddie was also an avid animal lover, especially cats. He had ten cats at home, which he treated like children. His first pair of cats were Tom and Jerry, which he adopted when he was living with Mary Austin.
But he did have a favorite, a calico cat named Delilah. Mercury even wrote a song about her, appropriately called “Delilah,” which is featured in his “Innuendo” album. The cat was just as in love with Freddie and stayed by his side until the day he passed away. It was one of his most special relationships.
Buckingham Palace Bomb Damage
Since Buckingham Palace is located in London, during the Second World War, it would be in the range of fire for bombs dropped on the city. All in all, Buckingham Palace would be bombed on seven occasions. In this photo taken on September 13, 1940, we see a young King George VI and his wife, Queen Elizabeth the Mother, surveying damage to the palace after a German bombing raid.
When the war first broke out, the royal family was evacuated and Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret were sent to Windsor Castle. Press coverage of the royals during the war was minimal but this incident of them inspecting the damage was filmed. The coverage intended to showcase the common suffering that united the rich and the poor – a sign that the royals shared the grief and hardship of their subjects.
John Lennon and Yoko Ono
They are one of the most iconic and artistic couples who ever lived. The pair lasted for a strong 11 years until the untimely and unfortunate assassination of John Lennon. The two bumped into each other in an art gallery in mid-60s London, and the rest was, literally ground-breaking history.
Ever since then, the pair were inseparable and even had two-week bed-in protests for peace. They were purveyors of love, and they both had a huge influence on the hippie movement. Their relationship was undoubtedly controversial, but no one can deny that it made waves and inspired people for years after.
Liberace
If anyone told us this bathroom belonged to anyone other than piano prodigy Liberace, we wouldn’t have believed them. Here is the famous singer, musician, and actor with an illustrious career spanning over 40 years. Liberace being Liberace, decided to pose in his home while taking a luxurious bubble bath during a TV special called “A Day in the Life of Liberace.”
Apart from the $55,000 marble bathtub (and that’s just the bathtub, please note the entire bathroom is made of marble!), we have the golden cherub statue that works as a towel holder, the opulent swan faucet, and basically every single detail in this room screams…Liberace!
Kim is Back in Black
If we’ve learned anything about Kim Kardashian over the years, it’s to expect the unexpected. Fans and haters alike were waiting with bated breath to see what the reality star would wear to the 2021 Met Gala, especially because she had filed for divorce from Kanye West earlier that year. To everyone’s shock and delight, Kim went in an unexpected direction and showed up in a 100% matte black bodysuit. Even her face, hair, and feet were completely covered in black fabric.
Balenciaga designed the look, and fans speculated that the male figure who attended with her was Kanye himself. Alas, it was actually the brand’s creative director, Demna Gvasalia. Kim’s look definitely created a buzz and stole the show, which is exactly what she wanted amidst her very public breakup with Kanye.
Vivienne Westwood Flashes Photographers at Buckingham Palace
Vivienne Westwood was a designer ahead of her time. She pioneered sustainable fashion long before it became a marketing buzzword. Westwood defined the punk fashion era during the 1970s. It’s no wonder the designer was conferred an OBE. More than the recognition, her famously infamous photograph after the ceremony still makes headlines today.
Westwood had received her OBE and stepped outside the palace when she decided to celebrate with a twirl for the benefit of the photographers. She ended up flashing the photographers instead of the other way around. Westwood had said that she typically never wears underwear with dresses. And it’s a scream imagining what the royal family might have had to say about this when they found out.
The Queen and Prince Philip Meet the Kennedys
The late Queen Elizabeth II has gone out of her way to meet all of the US presidents. There is one exception, Lyndon B. Johnson. While there are all kinds of speculations as to why the two did not meet, this photo shows that the late Queen definitely met John F. Kennedy and Jackie Kennedy. According to the TV series “The Crown,” the Queen was jealous of the First Lady.
Other reports have also indicated that the two shared a cordial but complicated relationship. But in this photo, the Queen and First Lady both dazzle. Nothing about the Queen indicates she is afflicted with the green-eyed monster. She simply looks gracious. Whether their relationship was tense or whether they were pitted against each other we might never fully know.
Evel Knievel, 1967
Before all the amateur pranksters began filming their stunts for TV, Evel Knievel was the ultimate daredevil. When you think of old-school stunts, you think of this guy. Pictured here, Evel Knievel tried to jump over the fountains at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.
The jump was around 141 feet, and unfortunately, Knievel didn’t make it. Knievel crashed and wound up in a coma for 28 days. But what resulted from his failed stunt and ensuing coma was more fame, and Knievel became more popular than ever. He inspired an entire generation of stuntmen and daredevils, up until the present day.
Princess Diana Dies
Princess Diana was different. She was beautiful and charming but also endearing in a way most royals aren't. They called her the People’s Princess, and it was a role she took very seriously. On August 31, 1997, the world froze en masse when news broke about her death in a car accident. Something irrevocably shifted in the air that day.
People left flowers, gifts, and cards outside Buckingham Palace in the thousands. And they kept coming for days after her funeral until the palace itself seemed to fade into the background. A people traditionally known for restraint wept unabashedly. In some cases, grief was punctuated by anger at the monarchy for being unkind to her.
The Space Landing, 1969
When astronauts did finally step foot on the moon in 1969 it was, without question, one of the most defining moments in human history. Think about it - a human being stepped foot on another celestial body that wasn't our planet Earth. People must have been tripping! Neil Armstrong’s first words about his experience are unforgettable and still quoted today.
“That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Together with Buzz Aldrin, the two were officially the first humans to take their first steps on the moon. And many films have been made about this historic moment. In 2018, Ryan Gosling starred as Niel Armstrong in "First Man."
Coming To America, 1964
No - we're not talking about the Eddie Murphy movie. We're talking about The Beatles! This boy band from Across the Pond made waves in the world of music and finally landed in the U.S. This photo captured their first time in the U.S. after they landed at John F. Kennedy Airport in 1964.
The Beatles were the number-one band among the younger generation during the 60s, mixing genres and continuously breaking both sales and records. Though only two of the members remain alive today, fans will always remember them as “The Fab Four.” Lennon, McCartney, Harrison, and Starr are rock n' roll royalty.
Louis Armstrong Serenades His Wife Lucille Wilson - The Pyramids of Giza, 1961
In the vintage black and white photo below, with the grand Egyptian Pyramids of Giza as their backdrop, internationally renowned jazz musician and singer Louis Armstrong romantically plays the trumpet for his loving wife Lucille Wilson, as she affectionately sits and watches her husband, listening with a smile: a truly iconic shot. The world became entrapped in the age of the Cold War, and relationships between world nations became increasingly strained.
So the U.S. sought out a unique approach to bring the world together in this time of great international conflict. Their solution? Jazz. During the Cold War, the U.S. government harnessed the power of jazz—a type of music unique to America at this point in history, one which was said to symbolize the harmonious fusion of African and American culture.
Back in Time
Every year, world records get broken in all kinds of sports. However, those world records had to start somewhere, and with every new record, there are shocked fans who are in disbelief at the accomplishment. This photo perfectly encapsulates one of those exact moments.
Here we see Roger Bannister on a May 6th, 1954 Mile run. It earned him the title of the first person in human history to run a mile in under 4 minutes at 3 minutes and 59 seconds. Today the record is held by Hicham El Geurrouj at 3:43 minutes, and he's held it since 1999!
A Sacrifice for Solidarity
After winning gold and silver medals in the 1968 Olympic games, John Carlos and Tommie Smith raised their fists in solidarity with the black plight for equality in the United States. It was during a time when Jim Crow laws and discrimination were rampant around the nation.
Unfortunately, the two were banned from both the U.S. team and the Olympic Village after the protest. A sad day for sports. But in hindsight, the image has remained one of the most iconic moments in the fight for racial equality in the United States of America. Tommie Smith has since described the salute as one for "human rights," not "Black Power" per se.
Time-Travel Kind of Fast
Usain Bolt is one of the fastest human beings on earth, and that speed showed the most during the 2016 Olympics. This picture was taken on the day when Bolt broke records both for the 100-meter and 200-meter sprint.
He's so fast, in fact, that it almost looks like he is time-traveling and even has time to look back at his opponents and joyfully smile. Bolt developed a reputation during his heyday to make it look like he was jogging toward the finishing line. When in reality, he's just really tall. He ended up winning a whopping eight Olympic gold medals.
Moviegoers Wait in Line to Watch “The Exorcist” in Theaters, 1973
The below photo depicts the overwhelmingly large amount of people who anxiously waited in long lines out the door and around-the-corner, just to buy a ticket to see the 1973 horror film, “The Exorcist.” Released in cinemas on December 26th, 1973, this image illustrates the astonishing popularity of the film labeled as “one of the greatest horror films of all time,” both at the time of its release and up until today.
The movie proved itself a “major commercial success,” bringing in a whopping $441 million worldwide! Believe it or not, this terrifying horror classic is actually based on a true story. Indeed, the novel that inspired the movie, written by author William Peter Blatty, is actually based on the real-life exorcism of a young boy, known by the pseudonym Roland Doe, in 1949.
Margaret Gorman, The First Miss America
This look is for you if you love vintage fashion. Unless you’re a hardcore fan, you probably don’t know who holds the title of the first official Miss America. Well, here she is. Margaret Gorman was only sixteen when she won the inaugural competition in Atlantic City in 1921. Interestingly, she wasn’t officially crowned until a year later, which was when this photo was taken.
Margaret proudly stands on stage sporting a very regal-looking outfit, complete with an elaborate crown and quintessentially 20s dress. The photo is in black and white, but records state that the gown was a sea-green chiffon. Take away the striped cape and sea-worthy crown, and Margaret’s dress would fit right in at a cocktail party today. It’s absolutely beautiful.
Martha Stewart
Nowadays, she is known for being the ultimate cooking guru, and business mogul, and for having an oddly hilarious partnership with rapper Snoop Dogg. But back in the day, Martha Stewart started cooking in her kitchen and sharing DIY tips for housewives across the country.
Here we have the famous Stewart in all her glory, back in 1976, laying out homemade pasta on a wooden board in the beautiful rustic kitchen of her Connecticut house. This photo is absolutely wonderful – a smiling Martha Stewart doing what she loves, a 70s-style stripped apron, the layers of pasta hanging on a rack in the background, and that wooden kitchen that looks straight out of a homestyle magazine.
Kanye West Was the Most Jealous of All Time
Just think about how much both of these recording artists have gone through in the time since this famously embarrassing event. Taylor Swift seemed to just be starting her career, and she was receiving a big award when Kanye West jumped up to snatch the mic and start yelling about Beyonce.
The guy gets a tiny bit of leeway since he wanted the attention on someone else, but he's still clearly the bad guy in this instance. Come on, West, let Swift have her moment. There will be plenty of other times for you to make a fool of yourself.