https://library.artstor.org/#/asset/28671377;prevRouteTS=1616025662383
The content recorded in this image is of demonstrators, mostly Vietnam Veterans, that are standing in front of the United States Capitol Building on April 24, 1971. The people in this photo are protesting against the Vietnam War in Washington, DC. This photograph was taken by Leonard Freed and represents the largest ever demonstration opposing a U.S war. The title of this photo is “View of Demonstrators in front of the United States Capitol Building.” It is a black and white gelatin silver print depicting the massive group of demonstrators taking up the whole front lawn of the US capitol building. It was taken far from the capitol building so it could photograph the whole crowd as well as the whole building and sky. The contrast from the massive group of protestors to the building allows the photo to have more depth and power. Only the people closest to the camera are visible and you can see how serious their facial expressions are. You can see various signs of peace being held up throughout the crowd. The photo looks as if it is taken as a panorama. The significance of this image is that it represents one of the largest marches in Washington reaching the steps of the capitol demanding an end to the war in Vietnam. It shows how American citizens can come together with a shared goal to “stop the government” with collective anger and passion. Truly a photograph that represents democracy. This movement started a new kind of radicalism and influenced protest movements ever since.
Leonard Freed, American, 1929 – 2006. View of Demonstrators in front of the United States Capitol Building…. 1971. Artstor, library.artstor.org/asset/28671377
Good, thorough commentary. Remember to make your images linkable, even when there is only one.