Dorothea Lange’s Iconic ‘Migrant Mother’ and the Human Face of the Great Depression

The most famous and iconic image by Lange is “Migrant Mother,” which was captured in 1936 amid the Great Depression.

Through her work, Lange captured the societal problems of her day, especially during the Great Depression.

“Migrant Mother” is more than just a picture; it’s a potent representation of resiliency and the human spirit that enhances our understanding of that historical period.

The development of visual storytelling was significantly influenced by Lange’s use of visuals to tell stories.

An unemployed lumber worker goes with his wife to the bean harvest. Note social security number is tattooed on his arm.

In addition to producing moving pictures, Lange’s work also involved advocacy. Through her images, she aimed to advocate for good change and draw attention to societal injustices.