Early 20th Century Political Figure Barratt OHara

This historical photograph captures Barratt OHara, a significant political figure from the early 20th century. Active in Illinois politics, OHara served as a U.S. Congressman from 1933 to 1935, representing the 24th congressional district. His time in office came during the Great Depression, a period marked by economic hardship and significant social changes in the United States. OHara was a member of the Democratic Party and engaged in the political reforms of his time, supporting New Deal legislation aimed at economic recovery.

The photograph is part of the George Grantham Bain Collection, known for its vast documentation of notable individuals and events from the early 1900s. Bain News Service, which produced the photograph, focused on providing timely visual coverage of American public life, capturing a wide range of subjects from politics to culture. This particular image serves as a snapshot of OHaras era, reflecting the political climate and the individuals who played vital roles during a transformative period in American history. Understanding OHaras contributions helps to illuminate the broader societal shifts that occurred during the 1930s, framing the context within which he operated as a public servant.