World War I Era Portrait of a Key Historical Figure

This photograph, taken by the Bain News Service in 1917, captures a figure known as Wilson. During this era, the United States was entangled in World War I, a conflict that profoundly impacted American society, politics, and its role on the global stage. The image reflects a time when photography was transitioning into a prominent medium for documenting current events and notable individuals, using glass negatives as a popular format for preserving images.

The Bain News Service played a significant role in visual journalism, providing a wealth of photographs to newspapers and publications. This particular portrait of Wilson is part of the larger George Grantham Bain Collection, which chronicles various events and notable figures from the early 20th century. The photograph provides a glimpse into the styles and techniques of the time, illustrating the methodology of depicting subjects with clarity and depth using glass as a medium. Understanding these historical contexts allows us to appreciate the impact of photography on public perception during pivotal moments in history.