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These striking photographs offer a rare and important glimpse into the lives of African Americans during a transformative period in American history. Taken more than a century ago, these images go beyond the often-stereotyped portrayals of the era, revealing strength, dignity, and resilience in the face of systemic oppression. They capture moments of everyday life, community, and achievement within a community forging its path forward in the aftermath of slavery and amidst burgeoning Jim Crow laws.
From portraits of accomplished professionals to scenes of families and communities, these photos celebrate the perseverance and diverse experiences of African Americans who helped shape our nation. Let these 40 powerful images serve as both a reminder of the challenges faced and a tribute to the enduring spirit of a people determined to thrive against all odds.
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#2
Beechnut Gum Girl On 17th St. N. Little Savoy Cafe Birmingham Alabama, 1940's
#4
President Lincoln's Horse, Old Robin, 1865
#7
Half-Length Portrait Of An African American Woman Wearing A Hat And Holding Parasol, Between 1861 And 1870
#9
Vintage Photo Of African American Family With Their Dog, 1910
#17
Seated Black Man Wearing Four Button Sack, Laborer, Ring, Between 1861 And 1865
Huddo's sister 7 months ago
He's wearing a four button sack and is a labourer
Load More Replies... #18
Three-Quarter-Length Portrait Of An African American Woman Facing Front, Between 1870 And 1880
#19
Head-And-Shoulders Portrait Of A Young African American Man Facing Front, Between 1870 And 1880
#22
African American Woman, Half-Length Portrait, Seated, Holding A Basket, Between 1861 And 1865
#23
Two African American Union Soldiers, Between 1860 And 1870
Huddo's sister 7 months ago
I'm guessing, like the Aboriginal ANZACs in WWI, black soldiers were valued during the war but abandoned or sent back to their former lives without recognition, or am I mistaken?
#24
African American Man, Full-Length Portrait, Facing Right, Between 1864 And 1866
#25
Group Portrait Of Isaac White And Augusta Broujey With A Woman, Possibly Mary Johnson, C. 1863
#26
Half-Length Portrait Of An African American Man, Possibly A Buffalo Soldier, Between 1866 And 1900
#27
Unidentified African American Soldier In Union Uniform, Between 1863 And 1865
#30
Seated Soldier Wearing Four Button Sack With Kepi, Patriotic Matte, Between 1860 And 1870
#31
Outdoor Scene, Mounted Cavalry Soldier Seated On Horse, Between 1861 And 1865
#32
Capt. Goodrich's Jack, Between 1860 And 1870
#33
Full-Length Portrait Of An Unidentified Woman, Seated, And Full-Length Portrait Of A Child Standing On Her Right, Both Subjects Are Facing Front, Between 1860 And 1870
#36
Full-Length Portrait Of An African American Boy In Nautical Clothing, Between 1860 And 1870
#38
Two Young African American Boys Facing Front, Wearing Hats And Jackets, Between 1860 And 1870
#39
Nathan Jones, Camp Metcalf, Va., Between 1860 And 1870
Michelle C 7 months ago
He looks miserable…I wonder if he was conscripted to go to the war…. 💔
#40
Young African American Girl, Photo Booth Type Photo
Pedantic Panda 7 months ago
Americans. They are Americans. You don't have to be white to be one
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What do you think ?
Pedantic Panda 7 months ago
Americans. They are Americans. You don't have to be white to be one
Pedantic Panda 7 months ago
Americans. They are Americans. You don't have to be white to be one
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