King Alfonso XIII with Boy Scouts, 1917 Gathering

This historical photograph features King Alfonso XIII of Spain surrounded by a group of Boy Scouts, taken on September 15, 1917. Alfonso XIII reigned from 1886 until his exile in 1931, and during his kingship, he was known for promoting various social reforms and modernization efforts in Spain. The Boy Scouts movement, founded in 1907 by Robert Baden-Powell, aimed to instill values of citizenship and teamwork in young boys. This image captures a significant moment when royal support helped elevate the visibility and appeal of such youth organizations.

The photo, taken by the Bain News Service, illustrates a unique interaction between the monarchy and the youth of the country, highlighting a sense of camaraderie and community. At the time, the World War I era presented challenges and uncertainties across Europe. The presence of the king among the Boy Scouts symbolizes an effort to connect with younger generations and promote ideals of service and readiness during tumultuous times. This image serves as a reminder of the intersection between leadership and youth engagement in early 20th-century Europe.