There are many significant photographs from the 20th century, and it is difficult to choose only a few. However, here are some of the most iconic and influential photographs of the 20th century, along with why they are important:
"Migrant Mother" by Dorothea Lange - This photograph, taken during the Great Depression, has become a symbol of the hardship and suffering endured by many during that era. The image of a mother and her children looking off into the distance has become an iconic representation of poverty and desperation.
"V-J Day in Times Square" by Alfred Eisenstaedt - This photograph, which captures the spontaneous celebration of the end of World War II, has become a symbol of joy and relief. The image of a sailor kissing a nurse in Times Square has become an iconic representation of victory and happiness.
"Tank Man" by Jeff Widener - This photograph, taken during the Tiananmen Square protests in 1989, has become a symbol of peaceful resistance and defiance. The image of a man standing in front of a line of tanks has become an iconic representation of courage and conviction.
"Napalm Girl" by Nick Ut - This photograph, which shows a young girl running from a napalm attack during the Vietnam War, has become a symbol of the brutality and horror of war. The image of a naked and terrified girl has become an iconic representation of the suffering and innocence of civilians caught in the crossfire.
"Earthrise" by William Anders - This photograph, taken during the Apollo 8 mission in 1968, has become a symbol of the fragility and beauty of the earth. The image of the earth rising over the lunar horizon has become an iconic representation of the interconnectedness of all life on our planet.
These photographs are important because they capture significant moments in history and have become symbols of the human experience. They have the power to evoke emotions, inspire action, and shape our collective memory of the past. They are also important because they demonstrate the power of photography to communicate and connect us, even across time and distance.