Few ancient civilizations evoke as much intrigue and mystique as the Maya. Known for their advanced knowledge, striking architecture, and enigmatic cultural practices, the Maya left behind numerous unanswered questions. Among the greatest mysteries is the s…
Fashion has always played a central role in holiday celebrations, from timeless little black dresses to whimsical, tacky sweaters and the excitement of shopping for new festive outfits. Yet some Christmas fashion trends stand out as especially curious—like …
In the late 1950s and early 1960s, hair salons were more than just places to perfect the era’s iconic bouffants and big hairstyles—they were a central part of social life. Even as these elaborate hairdos faded in popularity, giving way to more relaxed and m…
The quintessential image of wartime Saigon often centers on the figure of the bar girl: a young Vietnamese woman, dressed to captivate in a halter top and mini-skirt, offering cigarettes, liquor, or even her company to passing American GIs, all in broken Engli…
In the 1960s and 1970s, long before he stepped onto the world stage, Barack Obama was a bright-eyed boy with an infectious smile and a big future ahead. These rare childhood photos capture his early years, showing sweet, everyday moments that highlight the …
In 1907, when Annette Kellerman appeared on Revere Beach in a one-piece swimsuit ending in shorts above her knees, her bold choice created an uproar. Her legs, visible and daring by the standards of the day, led to her arrest for indecency. Yet those same l…
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, photography was becoming more accessible, allowing people to capture cherished moments from everyday life. Among these moments were portraits of people with their feline companions, a delightful reminder that the b…
Glamour shots were an unforgettable part of 1980s and early 1990s culture, offering anyone the chance to experience a studio portrait makeover. These sessions featured soft lighting, feathered accessories, and dramatic, over-the-top hairstyles. However, …
As modern technology rapidly advances, jobs that once seemed like the stuff of science fiction are now becoming everyday realities. However, as new opportunities emerge, many roles that were once essential have faded into history. This list explores …
These black and white photographs, taken by LIFE photographer Cornell Capa in 1947, beautifully capture the style of teenage girls from Highland Park High School during the mid to late 1940s. These images provide a glimpse into the fashion and elegance of t…
Driving has not traditionally been viewed as a feminine occupation, a notion even more prevalent in early 20th-century Paris. It was during this time that history was made by the first women to obtain taxi licenses in the city. A 1908 report from The M…
Mourning dress is most commonly associated with the Victorian era, despite being a part of wardrobes for centuries prior. This period's prominence in the history of mourning attire is largely due to Queen Victoria, who famously wore mourning dress for forty…
Historically, dog-drawn carts were a common sight in Belgium and the Netherlands, employed for the transportation of milk, bread, and other goods. These vehicles, typically pulled by a pair or more of canines, were a practical and efficient mode of delivery…
The term "banality of evil," introduced by political theorist Hannah Arendt, captures the disturbing notion that ordinary people can perpetrate horrific acts. The portraits of the Bergen-Belsen camp guards provide a haunting illustration of this concept. …
During the early days of mugshots, the American frontier was teeming with outlaws and bandits, making it a prime location for capturing their images. This gallery of Wild West mugshots shows some of the most notorious criminals from the late 1800s and early…
Flappers were a subculture of young Western women who emerged after World War I and became prominent throughout the 1920s. Known for their distinctive style, they wore knee-length skirts, bobbed their hair, and embraced jazz music. Flappers boldly chal…
This collection of vintage photographs offers a snapshot into the everyday lives of Americans from the 1900s to the 1940s, showing moments that are both amusing and undeniably cool. From the bustling streets of urban centers to the simplicity of rural life,…
In the 1920s, Western fashion underwent a dramatic transformation. Women's clothing shifted away from the elaborate and restrictive styles of the Victorian and Edwardian eras. Instead, fashion embraced looser, more comfortable garments that revealed more of…
Feeling stuck in a style rut, unsure how to break free from the monotony of your wardrobe? Prepare for a burst of inspiration as we take you on a thrilling journey through time, exploring some of the most iconic photographs in history. From the effortles…
As the 20th century unfolded, photographers were on a mission to capture the world's evolution. They snapped away at everything from the chaos of war to the birth of new inventions, as well as the everyday weird and wonderful sights. Think about Boston's…