Determining the "best" historical photographs is subjective and can vary depending on personal preferences and cultural backgrounds. However, here are ten iconic historical photographs that are widely recognized for their significance:
"The Afghan Girl" (1984) by Steve McCurry - This portrait of a young Afghan refugee with piercing green eyes became an iconic symbol of the refugee experience.
"Migrant Mother" (1936) by Dorothea Lange - This photograph depicts Florence Owens Thompson, a mother of seven, during the Great Depression, symbolizing the hardships faced by many during that era.
"Tank Man" (1989) by Jeff Widener - Captured during the Tiananmen Square protests, this image of an unidentified man standing in front of a line of tanks has become a symbol of peaceful resistance.
"Raising the Flag on Iwo Jima" (1945) by Joe Rosenthal - This photograph, taken during World War II, shows U.S. Marines raising the American flag atop Mount Suribachi during the Battle of Iwo Jima.
"The Falling Man" (2001) by Richard Drew - This photograph captures a man falling from the North Tower of the World Trade Center during the September 11 attacks, symbolizing the tragedy and horror of that day.
"V-J Day in Times Square" (1945) by Alfred Eisenstaedt - This iconic image depicts a sailor kissing a nurse in Times Square to celebrate the end of World War II.
"Lunch atop a Skyscraper" (1932) by Charles C. Ebbets - This photograph shows construction workers casually eating lunch while perched on a steel beam high above New York City, symbolizing the resilience and bravery of laborers during the Great Depression.
"The Burning Monk" (1963) by Malcolm Browne - This photograph captures the self-immolation of Thích Quảng Đức, a Buddhist monk protesting against the persecution of Buddhists by the South Vietnamese government.
"Earthrise" (1968) by William Anders - This photograph, taken by an astronaut during the Apollo 8 mission, shows the Earth rising above the lunar horizon, providing a powerful perspective on humanity's place in the universe.
"Napalm Girl" (1972) by Nick Ut - This photograph depicts nine-year-old Phan Thi Kim Phuc running naked and severely burned from a napalm attack during the Vietnam War, highlighting the devastating impact of war on innocent civilians.