1917 Portrait of a Key Figure in New York Politics

This photograph features C. S. Whitman, taken in 1917 by the Bain News Service. Whitman was known for his role in New York politics during a time of significant change in the United States. As a prominent political figure, he contributed to various urban reform initiatives. His work reflected the growing interest in municipal governance and accountability in early 20th-century America.

The year 1917 is crucial in American history, marking the U.S. entry into World War I. This period brought about shifts in public policy and the economy, which influenced local leaders like Whitman. Photographs like this one provide a glimpse into the everyday individuals shaping society during a transformative era, connecting viewers to their motivations and the political climate of the time.