1917 New York: Anarchist Berkman on Crutches

The photograph captures Alexander Berkman, a prominent anarchist, using crutches on June 20, 1917, in New York State. Berkman was a significant figure in the American anarchist movement, known for his advocacy of workers rights and his opposition to World War I. This particular image is a testament to his resilience, as he had been severely injured during a prison incident while advocating for the rights of political prisoners. His visible struggle with crutches underscores the physical toll that activism can entail.

Taken by Bain News Service, this image contributes to the historical narrative of early 20th-century America, when political dissent was often met with harsh consequences. Berkmans involvement in controversial trials and his staunch commitment to civil liberties made him a polarizing figure during a time when government suppression of dissent was rampant. The photograph is part of essential records that document the evolution of anarchism, socialism, and legal challenges during this tumultuous era from 1910 to 1920. It offers a glimpse into the real struggles faced by those who dared to advocate for change in a period of widespread unrest and repression.