The article “Migrant Mothers” by George Dillard explores the story behind Dorothea Lange’s iconic photograph “Migrant Mother,” featuring Florence Thompson. It delves into Thompson’s life during the Great Depression and her mixed feelings about the photograph’s legacy. The piece highlights the role of Depression-era photography in shaping public perception and its engineered nature to evoke specific emotions. Teachers may find this article valuable for discussing the intersection of art, history, and social commentary, while encouraging students to critically analyze historical sources.
Why It’s Interesting:
- Includes photos of other "migrant mothers" taken by Lange
- Connects historical context with visual storytelling.
- Encourages critical thinking about documentary photography.
- Offers a personal narrative that humanizes historical events.
- All images available at LOC
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