These Iconic Historical Photos Will Blow Your Socks Off1
Thanks to the advent of breakthrough technology, we can now easily capture every moment. However, in the past, this wasn’t always the case. This is why these iconic photos managed to stand the test of time. Some of these photos became so influential later on as they immortalized a moment in history or a captured a significant event. Others recorded an iconic character, a meeting between legends or the start of something great. They say that each picture speaks a thousand words, and each of these photos has an incredible back story and meaning, which is why each of these spellbinding stories deserve to be told…
From the earliest photo ever taken, to monumental photos of performers, or significant events, we’ve curated a list of legendary snaps that managed to change the world as we know it. At the time some of these shape-shifting photos were taken, some were just lost in the moment, with no idea how significant they would become. After all, they would have no idea how famous the performer or band would be or that the event would mean so much. Other moments were recorded because they knew the event would be significant and mean so much later on. When we scanned through these photos, some of them managed to surprise us. Some were sentimental, others made us see everything differently and some photos even captured legends that are no longer with us. Other photos recorded characters that were so legendary that when they met another legend, it deserved to be documented.
Whilst photos are so easily accessible for millennials, this wasn’t always so. It was only in the last few years that we began to capture every moment, every concert, dinner, meeting, trip, event, celebrity or selfie. That’s why some of these iconic photos were so rare. Back then photographs had to be carefully planned, posed, focused and captured by talented photographers. Heck, they even had to wait to process the photo before they could check it, filter or crop it. That’s why some of these photos were taken especially to document something really significant. This is also why they became even more impactful and powerful and made into the historic hall of photo fame. So let’s take a stroll down memory lane and uncover just why these historical photos will blow your socks off…
The Dalai Lama as a Child
The highest spiritual leader of the Gelugpa sect of Buddhism is none other than the Dalai Lama. This branch of Buddhism is the newest school of Tibetan Buddhism. In the picture, you can see the current Dalai Lama. Tenzin Gyatso is the 14th person in history to hold the title and he is just a baby in this photo. He is well-known for his wisdom and here are some of his famous quotes: “Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries”, “Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible”, and “Sleep is the best meditation.”
The Dalai Lama as a Child
Arnold & Sylvester
The 71-year-old actor Arnold Alois Schwarzenegger was born in Austria, but it is in America where he became famous. He has also worked as an activist, author, bodybuilder, businessman, director, filmmaker, investor, philanthropist, and politician. That was quite the mouthful, but it just goes to show how impressive his resume is. Back in the 1990s, Schwarzenegger’s biggest box office rival is Sylvester Stallone. Here, you can see these two talented men dancing with each other! Stallone is best known for starring in the Rocky movies and he has even been inducted into the Boxing Hall of Fame for his work.
Arnold & Sylvester
Painting The Eiffel Tower, 1932
The Eiffel Tower is perhaps one of the most recognizable sights in the world. The iron lattice structure is located at the Champ de Mars in Paris, France. It got its name from its primary designer and architect, Gustave Eiffel. In the picture, you can see it being painted in the year 1932. It’s a good thing that we weren’t asked to do the job because that’s pretty terrifying! I can’t believe they are actually up there without wearing a harness!
Painting The Eiffel Tower, 1932
Muhammad Ali & The Beatles
Did you know that Muhammad Ali’s real name is Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr? The boxing legend was born in 1942 and he was a boxer, philanthropist, and activist all in one. He is dubbed one of the biggest sports icons the world has ever seen. Some fans have even gone so far as to call him the greatest boxer to have ever lived. You can see him play-punching with The Beatles in this photo. Of course, we are all familiar with the legendary British band who were able to release 17 top hits in the United States. In their home country, meanwhile, they attained the status of the most successful band in history.
Muhammad Ali & The Beatles
Marilyn Monroe Opens a Soccer Match
Just look at Hollywood’s sweetheart Marilyn Monroe kicking the first ball in a game between Israel’s Hapoel FC and the American Soccer League. This particular match happened on May 12, 1957. The actress and singer is believed to have attempted three kicks before the photographers were able to catch the shots they needed. What happened to the match, you ask? Well, the final score was 6-4 in favor of the Israeli team, though it seems like Marilyn’s great kick got more news coverage!
Marilyn Monroe Opens a Soccer Match
1st Class on the Titanic
When it comes to sunken ships, there is perhaps none more iconic than the RMS Titanic, a British passenger ship that collided with an iceberg in the North Atlantic Ocean. It was the liner’s maiden voyage and the accident happened on April 15, 1912. The event served as the setting for the extremely popular 1997 film starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet. The film actually became the highest grossing film after it came out. Aren’t these first-class quarters from the actual ship fancy?
1st Class on the Titanic
The Queen of England During World War II
Back in the Second World War, Queen Elizabeth of England was ‘only’ a princess. Thanks to her status, she could have chosen not to involve herself with the war efforts. However, that is not the type of person she is, please and thank you. In this photo, you can see the current monarch doing her part at the age of 19. She served as a Second Subaltern in 1945. Prior to the moment the photograph was taken, she underwent training in London and worked as both a mechanic and a military truck driver.
The Queen of England During World War II
Filming the MGM Studio Emblem in 1928
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. is perhaps more recognizable by its initials, MGM. It is a media company that is primarily involved with the production and distribution of programs for both the big screen and the small screen. The company’s headquarters are in Beverly Hills, California. It is one of the greatest film studios and part of its fame is for its emblem: the roaring lion. It is shown before just about every project that they have worked on. This is a behind-the-scenes outtake from the day they shot the iconic lion’s roar!
Filming the MGM Studio Emblem in 1928
Nikola Tesla in His Laboratory
Born in 1856, Serbian-American Nikola Tesla has gone down in history as one of the greatest inventors. He is also a futurist, electrical engineer, mechanical engineer, and physicist. His biggest contribution to the field would have to be his innovation of the modern alternating current electricity supply system. In the picture, you will find this genius sitting right behind a machine called the ‘magnifying transmitter’. Tesla did invaluable studies regarding electric light, electric motors, radar, radio, remote controls, robotics, x-ray, and wireless communications.
Nikola Tesla in His Laboratory
First Ever Picture of The Rolling Stones
The English rock band Rolling Stones was formed in London in the year 1962. Can you guess why this picture has a special place in history (and in our hearts)? It is actually the first picture of the band ever taken! They must be the second greatest band in British history! The first line-up was made of Mick Jagger on vocals, Brian Jones on the guitar and harmonica, Keith Richards on the guitar and backup vocals, Bill Wyman on bass, Ian Stewart on the piano, and Charlie Watts on drums. If you know your music history, you will also know that Stewart was removed from the lineup in 1963 at the request of their manager.
First Ever Picture of The Rolling Stones
A Young Steve Jobs & Bill Gates in 1985
If you are reading this right now, we bet you are familiar with Steve Jobs and Bill Gates. After all, they are the founder of Apple and Microsoft respectively! These two tech geniuses might sound like they were destined to be rivals but it certainly appears like they got along well in the picture. By the time that this picture was taken, they were already making waves in the industry. However, it should go without saying that they were still not yet household names like they are today.
A Young Steve Jobs & Bill Gates in 1985
First Morning After Sweden Changed Driving Lane, 1967
The world is divided by many things and one of these would be the side of the road that cars are driven on. If you happen to be visiting a country that does it differently from what you are used to, we hope that you are a pretty good driver! This will certainly lessen the disorientation. However, it must be a bit difficult if your home country suddenly transfers from one side to the other! This was what happened in Sweden and what you are looking at is the very morning that the country made the switch.
Man Measuring Women’s Bathing Suits
When headed to the beach, it is normal to want to dive right into the waters. However, can you imagine suddenly being stopped from heading straight into the ocean so that this man can measure the length of your bathing suit? Anything that is deemed too short will incur the wearer a fine! This scenario was playing out for these women in the photo back in the 1920s. We are thankful that this is no longer the case, though we still have a long way to go.
Man Measuring Women’s Bathing Suits
Michael Jackson & Michael Jordan in 1992
These two men are probably the two most famous men named Michael in history! One is the undisputed King of Pop, the other is the greatest player to have graced the basketball court. The photo shows them shooting hoops together back in 1992. While we doubt that Michael Jackson could have beaten Michael Jordon, we bet he wasn’t too bad at it. They might be famous for different things, but we are sure that their bank accounts are similarly impressive!
Michael Jackson & Michael Jordan in 1992
Elvis Presley & Muhammad Ali
Muhammad Ali makes it to the list yet again! This time, he is squaring up with the King of Rock, Elvis Presley. The photo was taken in Las Vegas in 1973 as Ali was in the middle of training for a fight with Joe Bugner. Elvis gifted him the robe that he is wearing and the gift allegedly cost the musician $3000! The back says ‘The People’s Choice’ in jewels and rhinestones. Ali donned the robe to the fight but he decided to never wear it again after he lost the title.
Elvis Presley & Muhammad Ali
Unbroken Seal on Pharaoh’s Tomb, 1922 (3,245 Years Untouched)
In 1922, archaeologist Howard Carter discovered Tutankhamun’s mostly intact tomb. Popularly nicknamed King Tut, the pharaoh ruled Egypt during the 18th dynasty, a period commonly referred to as the New Kingdom. He became a famous historical figure because he was only nine years old when he was given the title! His reign lasted for about a decade and the cause of his death remains unclear even until the present. This particular finding was the subject of international headlines back then and it renewed the public’s interest in ancient Egyptian history.
Unbroken Seal on Pharaoh’s Tomb,1922 (3245 Years Untouched)
Last Known Photo of the Titanic Above Water, 1912
We have previously mentioned the Titanic in the article, though this is yet another important picture of the liner. This is believed to be the last image taken of the ship before it succumbed to the depths of the Atlantic Ocean. Everyone knows by now that it sunk after it collided with an iceberg on a trip from Southampton to New York City. Records show that there were about 2,224 crew and passengers on board and 1,500 of them died. The accident is among the deadliest commercial maritime disasters in modern times.
Last Known Photo of the Titanic Above Water, 1912
Massive Crowds Gather for the First Woodstock, 1969
The Woodstock Music & Art Fair is usually just shortened to Woodstock. The music festival began in 1969 and even Coachella has yet to top its status as the most legendary music festival ever. It became famous as the image of the so-called ‘flower power’ movement. The event amassed an audience of over 400,000 people! While it was originally scheduled for the weekend of August 15 to 17 in the Catskills, everyone enjoyed themselves so much that the revelries did not end until the 18th.
Massive Crowds Gather for the First Woodstock, 1969
Salvador Dali Walking His Pet Anteater in Paris, 1969
The influential surrealist Salvador Dali was born in the Catalonian region of Spain. He is best known for his masterpiece ‘The Persistence of Memory’, the famous painting with the melting clocks set against a desert. The artist was highly creative and knew how to promote himself. He often came up with new ways to call attention towards his body of art. Here, you can see one such tactic: the artist decided to go out for a walk around the City of Light together with his anteater!
Salvador Dali Walking His Pet Anteater in Paris, 1969
The Brady Bunch Meets The Jacksons, 1971
The members of the younger generation will probably be more familiar with Michael Jackson’s solo work. However, he was once a member of the Jackson 5 along with his siblings. The musical group was a hit in its own right and the photo here shows the family meeting yet another famous brood, The Bradys. The fictional family hails from the sitcom The Brady Bunch and it is generally considered to be the last old-style family sitcom. It was on air for five seasons from the year 1969 to 1974.
The Brady Bunch Meets The Jacksons, 1971
First African-American to Attend White School, 1960
Ruby Nell Bridges Hall was a civil rights activist born in the year 1954. She became the first African-American kid to study at an all-white primary school in Southern USA. She began attending the William Frantz Elementary School in the state of Louisiana and became a recognizable face during the 1960 New Orleans school desegregation crisis. During that time it was quite controversial, so the little girl had to be escorted by Federal Marshals as she made her way to and from the school. Incidentally, a statue of Bridges was unveiled in the courtyard of the very same school in the year 2014.
First African-American to Attend White School, 1960
First Disneyland Admission Ticket Ever Sold
There were a total of two theme parks constructed at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California. The first one, Disneyland Park, opened its doors on July 17, 1955. Below is the picture of the first ticket ever sold! While there are many Disneyland parks across the globe, this theme park has the honor of being the only one whose design and construction was directly supervised by Walt Disney himself. This was formerly called Disneyland and it was initially the only attraction there. However, it received a name change when the complex began its expansion back in the 1990s. It receives a whopping 16 to 18 million visitors each year!
First Disneyland Admission Ticket Ever Sold
Original Ronald McDonald Clown
McDonald’s is the most legendary fast-food burger chain not only in the US but also the entire world! It was first founded by Maurice and Richard McDonald in San Bernardino, California. Isn’t it fascinating to learn that the first items they sold were hot dogs instead of burgers? Records show that a new branch opens every 14 hours! If that is not impressive enough for you, the fast-food giant also feeds 68 million people every day. We are all familiar with Ronald McDonald the clown, of course, and this here is the first iteration of the mascot all the way back in 1963.
Original Ronald McDonald Clown
First Ever Hair Dryer, 1920s
Every woman with long hair knows that it can be a pain to dry your hair after you step out of the shower! It’s a good thing that hair dryers exist. However, using one was not very convenient once upon a time so make sure not to take it for granted. Nearly a century ago, the first hair dryers entered the beauty market. They were not yet ideal for home use and stayed firmly at the salons – just look at how much space they would have taken up back then!
First Ever Hair Dryer, 1920s
Earliest Born Individual Ever Captured on Film
Sure, the woman in this photo might not look like anything special upon first glance. However, you will be surprised to hear that she actually plays an important part in documentation history! She is actually none other than Hannah Stilley. The woman is believed to have been born in the year 1745 and photographed almost a hundred years after her birth. Experts believe that this photo of Hannah is, in fact, the earliest born individual captured on a film camera! Wow.
Earliest Born Individual Ever Captured on Film
Audrey Hepburn & Friend
Audrey Hepburn was one of the biggest Hollywood stars during her time. To this day, she still has a certain influence on the entertainment industry! The Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Roman Holiday, Sabrina, Funny Face, and My Fair Lady actress can be seen doing her weekly shopping in this photo. Maybe she’s on the lookout for some excellent deals. Oh, can we forget to mention that her pet deer is accompanying her on the errand? Mike Tyson might appropriately have a tiger for a pet, but we have to say that Audrey’s pet deer is fitting as well!
Audrey Hepburn & Friend
A Small Gig for a Very Big Band
If you have ever attended a gig, you knew that this scene is nothing out of the ordinary. You have a band playing on stage and people dancing to their music! However, you might be surprised to learn that the band performing is actually The Beatles! This was taken in England in the year 1961 and there were only 18 people in attendance. It would take only a year before the band would become world famous and begin playing for thousands of people.
A Small Gig for a Very Big Band
Bill Gates Gets Arrested
When someone gets arrested, it will often be accompanied by a lot of shame and maybe even regret. However, that does not seem to be the case for Bill Gates, the man behind Microsoft! We daresay that he took the whole thing in stride. Here is his mugshot after his arrest in December 1977 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The circumstances haven’t been made clear, though it is believed he jumped a red light while driving without his license. Who would have thought that he would end up becoming one of the wealthiest men in the world?
Bill Gates Gets Arrested
The First Ever ‘Selfies’
These images might look more than a little dated, but we have to give them kudos for being ahead of their time! After all, this might be the very first selfie and groupie ever taken. The background may not be some beautiful beach or something just as glamorous, though isn’t it reassuring to think that even members of the older generation wanted to immortalize themselves. While social media has contributed to the popularity of the selfies, it was not a common practice back in the day.
The First Ever ‘Selfies’
Illegal Alcohol Poured Onto Street During Prohibition
The Prohibition period refers to the years in the ‘20s and the ‘30s when the United States outlawed the manufacture, sale, and consumption of alcohol. Can you imagine living in a time where drinking was made illegal? While this was the law, many people were determined to get their hands on alcoholic beverages. This was how the speakeasy came into style. This picture from 1929 Detroit probably depicts a police raid and the way the owners chose to discard of any evidence: by pouring alcohol right into the street!
Illegal Alcohol Poured Onto Street During Prohibition
Last of the Alcatraz Inmates Leaving the Prison in 1963
These days, Alcatraz Island is considered to be one of the biggest attractions in the city of San Francisco. However, once upon a time, it was considered to be the most notorious prison in the country! Located right off the San Francisco Bay, this tiny island infamously served as a federal prison from the years 1934 to 1963. It was in 1972 that Alcatraz that it was designated as a part of the national recreation area and declared a National Historic Landmark in 1986. The photo below shows the last inmates leaving in 1963.
Last of the Alcatraz Inmates Leaving the Prison in 1963
Woman Using Suntan Vending Machine in 1949
People who reside in areas that don’t receive plenty of sunshine often go on holidays somewhere warmer. No souvenir can ever beat a nice tan when someone heads home from a vacation! It exudes a healthy glow that makes everyone else jealous. However, it is not always possible to head to the tropics. Luckily, innovations in technology have made it possible to get a natural tan. This 1949 photo shows the lengths that people will go to achieve a tan back in the day.
Woman Using Suntan Vending Machine in 1949
Michael Jackson & Paul McCartney Washing Dishes
When it comes to music, it is difficult to beat the level of influence that Michael Jackson and Paul McCartney hold. However, these legends are still regular people. They even wash the dishes just like everyone else does! It is hard to determine exactly when this photo was taken, though it would be safe to guess it was sometime around 1983. After all, that was the time these two musical princes collaborated and released the song, ‘Say, Say, Say’ as part of McCartney’s LP, Pipes of Peace.
Michael Jackson & Paul McCartney Washing Dishes
‘Knocker-Ups’ Woke People in the Morning, 1900
It is pretty difficult to promptly get up in the morning and head off to work. When the alarm clock wakes us up, it is pretty much on instinct that we hit the ‘snooze’ button. Those who take a more proactive approach in life might even throw the damned thing at the wall for disturbing their slumber! You will be surprised that waking up in 1900s UK was pretty different from what we’re used to. In those days, ‘knocker-ups’ were responsible for greeting people ‘rise and shine’!
‘Knocker Ups’ Woke People in the Morning, 1900
Mickey & Minnie Costumes, Disneyland, 1930s
If you ask us, we will have to admit that these iterations of Disney characters Mickey and Minnie Mouse are nothing short of terrifying. We daresay that the child in the photo will agree with the sentiment. While we don’t know who to thank for redesigning the pair, we would like to give them an award! Make sure to take this into account on your next visit to the park. Posing for a photo with the newer mascots is definitely more pleasant these days.
Mickey & Minnie Costumes, Disneyland, 1930s
The Last Photo of All Four Beatles Together
While taste cannot be accounted for, there is simply no denying that The Beatles were able to reach new musical heights. At present, they are still the most popular musical group to have ever existed. When these four men decided to split up, fans from every corner of the world were heartbroken. The photo of ‘the fab four’ was taken on August 22, 1969. It is a significant photo because this was the last time they were caught on camera together. While only half of the group live on, their music and legacy continue to inspire millions around the globe.
The Last Photo of All Four Beatles Together
East Germans Move Into West Berlin After Fall of the Wall
Let’s face it: traffic jams often top every driver’s list of pet peeves. However, not all of them are considered to be dull, uninspiring, and unproductive. Just take a look at this photograph of a road Germany Berlin in 1989! What you are looking at is actually the advent of thousands of East Germans moving into West Berlin on the Saturday following the fall of the Berlin Wall. The barrier divided the European country for nearly three decades.
East Germans Move Into West Berlin After Fall of the Wall
Joseph Kittinger Skydives From Space, 1960
Regular folks might be terrified at the idea of jumping out of an aircraft with only a parachute. On the other hand, there exist thrill seekers who pretty much live for extreme sports like skydiving and bungee-jumping. If you have never done something like this, you should definitely consider doing it at least once in your life. This man, however, took daredevil stunts to literal new heights when he went skydiving from space. The photo was taken on August 16, 1960.
Joseph Kittinger Skydives From Space, 1960
Couple Refuse to Allow Their Home to Be Destroyed for New Road
These days, construction seems to be constantly ongoing in any urban space. At the rate that corporations are building, who knows if there will even be any space left for future infrastructures? In light of this, there is something oddly inspiring about witnessing individuals standing up to these giants. This photo was made possible thanks to an elderly Chinese couple who refused to allow the demolition of their house to pave the way for a new road. It’s certainly an odd sight if you did not know the story behind it.
Couple Refuse to Allow Their Home to Be Destroyed for New Road
Acrobats Celebrate the Opening of the Empire State Building, 1931
People who have yet to visit the iconic skyscraper should know that the Empire State Building is an incredibly tall building. It is not at all ideal if you have vertigo or acrophobia. It actually held the title of the tallest building in the world until the late 1970s! However, these acrobats don’t seem to mind. This picture was taken as they celebrated the building’s opening in May 1931. You would not be able to convince us to do that, but they sure look graceful!
Acrobats Celebrate the Opening of the Empire State Building, 1931
The Magnificent Grand Staircase…On the Titanic
This majestic staircase would not look out of place in a magnificent mansion, wouldn’t it? It would fit right in at the place of residence of some aristocrat. However, it is actually located inside a boat. Yes, we are talking about the Titanic yet again! People continue to be fascinated by the ship and its tragic tale as evidenced by movies, books, and documentaries about it. Most people will generally be familiar with James Cameron’s film Titanic which in fact prominently featured this grand staircase.
The Magnificent Grand Staircase On the Titanic
Madonna, Sting and Tupac Hanging Out
What we would give to be seated at the very same table as these three music legends! Whatever they were discussing, we are sure it must have been nothing short of mesmerizing. If you don’t know who these people are, you must have been living under some rock. They are none other than Madonna, Sting, and Tupac. Only they would know what was happening here but just looking at these three superstars enjoying themselves is enough for us.
Madonna, Sting and Tupac Hanging Out
Testing American Football Helmets in 1912
Sports is definitely a big thing in the culture of the United States of America. When it comes to favorite, American football is definitely right up there with baseball and basketball. However, it is undeniable that it is the most combative of the three. Players have to don pads and helmets to avoid injuries, though they are usually unavoidable regardless of the sport. Back in the 1920s, they did not have the same set of equipment that we do and they had to test out football helmets in a more manual manner.
Testing American Football Helmets in 1912
Johnny Cash & Bob Dylan, Los Angeles, 1969
You would be hard-pressed to find any celebrity that is cooler than musicians Johnny Cash and Bob Dylan. Here, you can see the two idols getting along like a house on fire in 1969 Los Angeles. Do you think they could be sharing tips on songwriting? These singer-songwriters are some of the most iconic composers in history and you will still find writing songs these days. At the height of their career, these two men easily had the most distinctive voices in the industry!
Johnny Cash & Bob Dylan, Los Angeles, 1969
Shield to Protect Face During Snow Storms in Canada, 1939
Sometimes, the worst enemy you will ever find would be the natural elements. Sometimes, even the most advanced technology can do little to protect you from the blazing sun or the winter chill. That’s why we shouldn’t make too much fun of these ladies and their odd-looking contraptions in 1939. These shields were meant to protect their faces from snow storms, though we are not sure how effective they truly were. Would you wear one of these now?
Shield to Protect Face During Snow Storms in Canada, 1939
Animal Tamer Sitting With His Cats, Circa 1903
Animal training involves teaching an animal certain responses to certain stimuli or conditions. Do not make the mistake of thinking that it is an easy feat, however! It is often associated with taming wild animals for circuses, though it can also refer to preparing an animal to go into service. You are looking right at the master animal tamer, Captain Jack Bonavita. Can you imagine looking that relaxed and nonchalant as you are surrounded by these majestic creatures?
Animal Tamer Sitting With His Cats Circa 1903
Einstein’s Office on the Day He Died, April 18th 1955
Does this remind you of your very own office space? Maybe it is similarly messy, though you will be surprised to learn who occupied this room! It was actually Albert Einstein’s office and the photo was taken on April 18, 1955. That was the same day that the prominent scientist passed away from an aneurysm. He was never known for being the cleanest man around and this is obvious from his chaotic desk. The theoretical physicist certainly disproves the popular belief that a tidy workstation will help one be more productive!
Einstein’s Office on the Day He Died, April 18th 1955
Jimi Hendrix & Mick Jagger, New York, 1969
Jimi Hendrix has been hailed multiple times as the greatest guitar player to have ever graced the entertainment industry. Here, you can see the rock star talking to Rolling Stones lead singer Mick Jagger. It was taken in 1969. Isn’t it unbelievable that Mick is still going on tours with his bandmates, nearly half a century later? Meanwhile, Jimi died of an overdose in 1970 at the young age of 27. It is safe to say that his musical legacy continues to live on.
Jimi Hendrix & Mick Jagger, New York, 1969
Rob Lowe, Sarah Jessica Parker & Robert Downey, 1988
What would you give to be young again? In the 1980s, the ‘brat pack’ referred to a group of up and coming actors and actresses. The picture shows some of the members of the group who have since become successful television and movie stars: Sarah Jessica Parker, Rob Lowe, and Robert Downey Jr. This was taken as they attended the Governors Ball held right after the 60th Academy Awards ceremony. It would only take several years before they were granted the status of household names!
Rob Lowe, Sarah Jessica Parker, Robert Downey, 1988
Michael Jordan Soaring Through the Air, 1988 Slam Dunk Contest
It would be difficult to find a basketball player who has attained more fame and success than Michael Jordan. His athletic prowess is simply unbeatable! The photo below shows a young MJ apparently soaring from the free throw line in order to amass a perfect 50 points in the 1988 Slam Dunk Contest. He is, in fact, the first person to win the NBA Slam Dunk Contest back to back! Yes, he is truly one of the greatest athletes of our time.
Michael Jordan Soaring Through the Air, 1988 Slam Dunk Contest
Colorized Picture of New York City, Circa 1900s
New York has gained a reputation as the center of the world for a good reason. This photo shows the Empire City in all its glory! This was originally a black and white photo taken during the 1900s but it still managed to immortalize the hustle and bustle associated with the place. The city continues to thrive and it is still the place to go if you want to make it big. Many things might have changed over the century, though it seems like New York’s magnificence is not one of them!
Colorized Picture of New York City Circa 1900s
The Breakfast Club!
This photo was taken on the set of the quintessential 1980s high school movie, The Breakfast Club. We bet that these young actors were unaware that they were about to make history by starring in the iconic film about five teenage delinquents attending detention. It continues to hold a special place in many people’s hearts. The cast members, meanwhile, went on to enjoy different levels of success after its release in 1985. We bet you won’t be able to ‘forget about them’ after watching it!
The Breakfast Club!
Man Browsing for Books, Cincinnati’s Old Main Library
Kindles and e-readers have changed the bibliophile community as people turn to these more convenient forms of reading. Overall, however, it is believed that fewer people read books than before. Libraries were once a stronghold in the community and they remain a haven for learners. In the photo, you can see a man going through the stacks in Cincinnati’s main library. This particular institution was actually demolished in the mid 50’s, a sad faith that other libraries also suffered. We maintain that nothing beats a good book, however!
Man Browsing for Books, Cincinnati’s Old Main Library
Niagara Falls Frozen Solid, 1911
There are actually three waterfalls situated on the border shared by New York and Ontario, though they are collectively referred to as the Niagara Falls. Individually, they are called the Bridal Veil Falls, the Horseshoe Falls, and the American Falls. The trio forms the southern tip of the Niagara Gorge. They usually freeze up during wintertime, though they never ice over completely. This majestic photo dates all the way back to 1911 when the falls iced up.
Niagara Falls Frozen Solid, 1911
Lincoln’s Head Under Construction at Mount Rushmore, 1937
The Mount Rushmore National Memorial showcases a sculpture carved right into the granite of Mount Rushmore. The huge igneous rock mass is located in Keystone, South Dakota. Artist Gutzon Borglum deserves the credit for the designs as well as the supervision of the project from 1927 to 1941. The sculptor was also assisted by his son throughout the process. This picture gives us a close-up photo of the construction of Lincoln’s likeness as well as a taste of the tedious work involved!
Lincoln’s Head Under Construction at Mount Rushmore, 1937
