Taking pictures of your kids is nothing new. Since the invention of the camera, people have wanted to take photographs of their children. So it only makes sense that we have lots of historic documentation of what it was like to grow up in the past. but in looking at these photographs, we noticed a lot of strange abnormalities from history. In today’s post here at History Collection, we are going over some of the strangest things that kids went through when they were growing up in the past.
Credit: AllThatsInterestingBack When Kids Were Shipped in the Mail
Shipping children through the mail was a historical phenomenon in the United States during the early 20th century. This was illegal but occurred due to various loopholes. The concept arose during a time when mail services were expanding rapidly. Regulations were not as strict as they are today. The United States Postal Service allowed the mailing live animals, as long as they were properly packaged and had appropriate postage. Instances of children being sent through the mail were relatively rare. When they did occur, it was usually due to unique circumstances or desperate situations faced by parents. In some rural areas, there was no nearby transportation. In such cases, families who needed to send their children to relatives would sometimes resort to using the mail service. Parents who wanted to send their children to a different location but couldn’t afford train or bus tickets might have used the mail service.
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Operation Babylift
Operation Babylift was a large-scale evacuation conducted by the United States government during the Vietnam War. It took place in April 1975 and aimed to airlift thousands of orphans out of Vietnam. They placed them in adoptive homes in the United States and other countries. The operation was prompted by the imminent fall of Saigon, the capital of South Vietnam, to North Vietnamese forces. The first flight took off from Tan Son Nhut Air Base in Saigon on April 3, 1975. More than 2,500 children were evacuated, including infants, toddlers, and older children. The airlift faced numerous challenges. This included logistical difficulties, including lack of information about the children’s backgrounds. The children were often accompanied by volunteers and medical personnel. Tragically, one of the flights crashed shortly after takeoff from Tan Son Nhut Air Base on April 4, 1975. This resulted in the loss of many lives.
Credit: AllThatsInteresting
Babies Receiving Sunlight Therapy
Sunlight therapy, also known as phototherapy, is a medical treatment commonly used to treat infants with jaundice. Jaundice is a condition characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes caused by an excess of bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells. Newborns are particularly susceptible to jaundice due to their immature liver function. Babies receiving sunlight therapy involves exposing the infant’s skin to specific wavelengths of light, typically blue light or blue-green light, which helps to break down the bilirubin and facilitate its elimination from the body. As you can see from this photo, sunlight therapy has been happening for a very long time. But the method may have been a little bit different back then compared to now.
Credit: AllThatsInteresting
A Boy and His Mom Watching an Atomic Bomb Test From Their Home
Atomic bomb tests involve the release of immense amounts of energy and radiation, which can have severe health consequences, including radiation sickness, burns, and long-term effects such as cancer and genetic mutations. During the mid-20th century, when nuclear testing was more prevalent, some individuals did witness atomic bomb tests from nearby locations. Safety protocols and evacuation measures were typically implemented to protect nearby residents from the dangers associated with nuclear explosions. Atomic bomb tests were conducted in remote and controlled areas, such as deserts or isolated islands, to minimize the risk to human populations. Spectators, including scientists, military personnel, and selected observers, were positioned at safe distances and often behind protective barriers or in underground bunkers to shield them from the immediate effects of the explosion. The destructive power of nuclear weapons and the release of radiation can have catastrophic consequences for both immediate and long-term health.
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Kids Playing With Bricks Made Out of Money in Germany During HyperInflation in 1923
During the hyperinflation period in Germany in 1923, the country experienced an extreme devaluation of the German mark. The hyperinflation was a result of various factors, including the massive war reparations imposed on Germany after World War I. And the government’s decision to print money to meet its financial obligations. As the value of the German mark plummeted rapidly, people faced immense difficulties in coping with the economic crisis. Prices soared, and the currency became practically worthless, leading to widespread poverty. In this context, children played with bricks made out of money, symbolizing the staggering devaluation of the currency. The hyperinflation was a devastating period for the German population, with people struggling to afford basic necessities and experiencing severe economic hardship. During this time, people often used banknotes as fuel for heating or wallpapered their homes with money due to its lower value compared to other commodities.
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The California Alligator Farm Where Kids Were Allowed to Play With Deadly Creatures
After taking just a quick glance at this picture, you want to run in there and grab the baby before it’s too late. But there are some wild parents out there who really think that it’s okay to let their kids have experiences like this while growing up. There have been various alligator farms and tourist attractions in different parts of the world where visitors can observe and sometimes interact with alligators and other reptiles in controlled and supervised environments. These establishments typically prioritize visitor safety and adhere to strict guidelines to minimize risks associated with interacting with potentially dangerous animals. When it comes to children interacting with wildlife, especially potentially hazardous creatures, responsible establishments prioritize safety and often have age restrictions or guidelines in place. Interactions are usually limited to observing from a safe distance or participating in educational programs led by trained staff.
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Children in the Residential School
Children growing up in residential schools refer to the Indigenous children in Canada and the United States were forcibly removed from their families. They were placed in government-sponsored or church-run residential schools. These schools sought to eradicate Indigenous cultures, languages, and traditions and assimilate children into Euro-Canadian or Euro-American society. The residential school system operated from the late 19th century to the late 20th century, with the peak period being from the 1880s to the 1980s. Indigenous children, often as young as 4 or 5 years old, were taken from their families and communities and sent to these schools far from their homes. The conditions in residential schools were often harsh, with children facing physical, emotional, and 𝑠e𝑥ual abuse, neglect, and cultural suppression. Many children were forbidden from speaking their native languages, practicing their cultural traditions, or maintaining contact with their families.
Credit: Reddit
Babies Left to Sleep Outside in the Soviet Union
During the early to mid-20th century in the Soviet Union, there was a practice known as “baby farming” or “child exposure” where infants were sometimes left to sleep outside, even in cold weather conditions. This practice was based on the belief that fresh air and exposure to nature would promote the child’s health and strengthen their immune system. The idea behind leaving babies outdoors stemmed from the influence of the theories of hygiene and the naturalistic approach to child-rearing. Some proponents of this practice believed that infants needed to be toughened up and exposed to natural elements to develop resilience and resistance to illness. Parents or caregivers would typically place the infants in cribs or wrapped in blankets and leave them outside to sleep, often in specially designated areas or on balconies. In some cases, babies were left outside for extended periods, including overnight.
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1940’s Car Seat
Car seats in the 1940s were quite different from modern car seats. During that time, the concept of specialized car seats for children was still in its early stages, and car safety standards were not as advanced as they are today. Car seats in the 1940s were typically simple in design and construction. They consisted of a metal or wooden frame with minimal padding and cushioning. The seats were often rigid and lacked the harnesses and restraints found in modern car seats. Car seats during this era were primarily designed for forward-facing use. They typically lacked safety belts, harnesses, or other restraints to secure the child in place. Seatbelts for adult passengers were also not common in most vehicles during this period. Car seats were usually placed on the car’s existing seat and secured using the vehicle’s regular seatbelt or by attaching them to the vehicle frame.
Credit: RedditLife Sized Dolls
A lot of people would find this photo to be creepy. But many of us who grew up in the ’90s know when it was like growing up with a life-size Barbie doll. Life-sized dolls refer to dolls that are created to replicate the size and appearance of a human being. These dolls are typically designed to resemble either adults or children. They are made from various materials such as silicone, vinyl, or cloth. Life-sized dolls have been produced for a variety of purposes, including artistic displays, collectors’ items, therapy aids, and even companionship. Here are some key aspects to consider: Life-sized dolls are crafted to resemble human beings in terms of size, proportions, and sometimes even facial features. Depending on their purpose, some dolls may be highly realistic, with detailed facial features, hair, and lifelike skin texture, while others may have a more stylized or artistic appearance.
Credit: Reddit
A Boy Posing Between Two Lobsters
The significance or story behind the photo could vary because of the context in which it was taken. The photo might have been taken during a fishing trip or visit to a seafood market or restaurant. This boy could be posing with the lobsters as a fun or humorous gesture, emphasizing their size or showcasing his enthusiasm for the catch. The photo could be related to an educational or experiential activity, such as a visit to an aquarium or marine education center. It could represent a hands-on learning opportunity for the boy to interact with marine life, where the lobsters serve as a subject of curiosity and discovery. The photo could have been staged for artistic purposes or as part of a creative project. It might be exploring the contrast between the boy’s innocence and the exotic nature of the lobsters. Who knows. Growing up is weird.
Credit: Reddit
Big Bird Promoted Vaccines
Big Bird, a beloved character from the children’s television show Sesame Street, has been involved in promoting vaccines to encourage children and families to get vaccinated. Sesame Street has a long history of addressing important social and health issues in a way that is accessible and engaging for young audiences. In early 2021, Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit organization behind Sesame Street, collaborated with various partners, including the Ad Council and COVID Collaborative, to launch an initiative called “Caring for Each Other.” This initiative aimed to provide resources and support for families during the COVID-19 pandemic. So it should really be no surprise that they have been advocating for vaccines for a very long time.
Credit: Reddit
Holding Up Babies Over the Berlin Wall
The Berlin Wall, constructed by the German Democratic Republic (East Germany) in 1961, was a heavily fortified barrier that divided East and West Berlin during the Cold War. The primary purpose of the Berlin Wall was to prevent the mass exodus of East Germans to West Germany and West Berlin. It consisted of various obstacles, including walls, barbed wire, guard towers, and a “death strip” with mines and other deterrents. The border guards were under strict orders to prevent any unauthorized crossings, and attempting to escape across the wall was extremely dangerous and often resulted in injury or death. While there were many attempts by East Germans to escape to the West, including through tunnels, hot air balloons, and other creative methods, there is no specific historical evidence of people holding up babies over the Berlin Wall as a means of escape or as a plea for help.
Credit: Reddit
The American Dream on a Factory Worker’s Salary
The concept of the American Dream traditionally refers to the belief that every individual, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status, has the opportunity to achieve success, prosperity, and upward mobility through hard work, determination, and equal access to opportunities. However, the realization of the American Dream can vary depending on various factors, including income, education, social mobility, and economic circumstances. For a factory worker, whose salary typically represents a middle-class or working-class income, the pursuit of the American Dream may involve different aspirations and challenges compared to those with higher incomes or more privileged backgrounds. Back in the 1950s and ’60s, people could afford to buy a house with factory worker salary. However, nowadays, most factory workers make minimum wage. And that is simply not enough to qualify for a mortgage.
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Cost of Having a Baby
If look closely at this picture, you will see that the cost for having a baby was just $178.25. According to Forbes, the average cost in 2023 is $18,865. This changes depending on your insurance policy, and how many bells and whistles you want for your birth. But it still costs thousands of dollars. In 1955, the cost of having a baby varied depending on several factors, including the location, type of delivery, and medical practices of the time. According to some estimates and anecdotal accounts from the era, the average cost of a hospital birth in the 1950s could range from around $100 to $300. However, it is essential to remember that these figures are approximate and can vary depending on various factors, including the specific location, individual circumstances, and any complications or additional medical services required.
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Young Oyster Shuckers
Young oyster shuckers were children, typically from lower-income families, who were employed in the oyster industry to shuck or open oysters. This practice was prevalent in various regions where oysters were harvested and processed, particularly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Oyster shucking involved opening the oyster shells, removing the meat, and preparing them for consumption or further processing. The work was labor-intensive and required manual dexterity, as well as the ability to handle sharp knives and oyster shells. Children were often employed as oyster shuckers due to their small hands and nimble fingers, which made them well-suited for the task. Additionally, child labor was relatively inexpensive compared to hiring adult workers. The practice of employing young oyster shuckers was particularly common in coastal areas where oysters were a vital part of the local economy.
Kids Carrying a Breakdancing Board
These kids are too cool for school. It’s rare to see kids growing up breakdancing, but this was the ’90s, and it was all the rage and Hip-Hop culture. These kids are carrying a large piece of cardboard through the city streets in order to put it down for their dance floor. This is very cute, and all of these kids probably ended up going to clubs in the city to bust a move. When you’re young, it’s easier to do things like break dancing. Hopefully they didn’t get injured in the process.
Foot Binding in China
Foot binding, also known as “lotus feet,” was a practice that occurred in China between the 10th and early 20th centuries. It involved the tight binding of young girls’ feet with cloth to restrict their growth. The process of foot binding typically began at a young age, often between 4 and 7 years old. It involved tightly wrapping the feet with bandages, gradually bending the toes inward and breaking the arch of the foot. The foot bones became deformed, leading to a characteristic “lotus foot” shape. Walking was extremely difficult and painful, as the foot’s mobility was greatly limited. Women with bound feet often had to walk with a distinctive shuffling gait and relied heavily on support from others. In the early 20th century, foot binding gradually fell out of favor. The practice was increasingly criticized for its harm to women. It was officially banned in China in 1912.
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Kids Waiting to Nail the Police Officer With Snowballs
Growing up, it’s normal to get into a snowball fight with your friends. But to throw them at a police officer is a different story. Maybe this image was staged. But this was taken at a time when children had a better relationship with their friendly neighborhood police officers. Nowadays, people are afraid of interacting with the police. Kids would think twice about trying to peg a police officer with a snowball. So this image is a nice little time capsule of a more innocent time, because we may never get it back again.
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Going to School Without Shoes
In various parts of the world, particularly in underprivileged communities or developing regions, it is not uncommon for children to go to school without shoes. This can stem from a range of factors, including poverty, limited access to resources, and challenging socioeconomic conditions. Nowadays, it is very rare for American children to go to school without shoes. We have so many charities in place, and thrift stores that sell secondhand clothing. So even some of the poorest people in our country are able to wear shoes. This is something that we now associate with people in third world countries, who often receive our shoes overseas. However, obviously, there are exceptions to this rule. But if there was a child who went to school without shoes on, it’s likely that they would be receiving a call from social services.
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Segregating the Zoo
Segregation laws, known as “Jim Crow laws,” were enacted in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and enforced racial separation in various aspects of life, including education, housing, transportation, public facilities, and employment. Racial segregation was enforced in public spaces. Facilities were typically designated as “white-only” or “colored,” with separate and inferior services provided for African Americans. The “separate but equal” doctrine, established by the Supreme Court case Plessy v. Ferguson in 1896, allowed for racially separate schools, but in reality, the educational opportunities for African American students were severely limited, with inferior resources and inadequate funding. Legal challenges, grassroots activism, and the leadership of figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks led to landmark civil rights legislation, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. These laws aimed to dismantle legal segregation and enforce equal protection under the law.
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The Class Divide Starts Early
In this picture, we see a bunch of kids dressed up in suits standing next to poor kids and normal clothing. This is an extreme example of the class divide in the United Kingdom. The class divide among children in the United Kingdom refers to the socioeconomic disparities and inequalities that exist based on social class during childhood and adolescence. These divisions are influenced by a range of factors, including family background, income, education, and access to resources. Children from lower-income backgrounds often face greater challenges in accessing quality education and academic resources. This can create educational disadvantages and perpetuate the class divide. Social class can influence the cultural capital that children have access to.
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The McDonalds Party Room
What ever happened to the McDonalds party room? The fate of individual McDonald’s party rooms can vary depending on the specific location. Some McDonald’s restaurants may still have party rooms available for hosting events and birthday parties. These party rooms are often equipped with kid-friendly amenities, such as themed decorations, play areas, and dedicated seating spaces. In some cases, McDonald’s party rooms may have been converted or repurposed for other uses. As the needs and preferences of customers change, individual locations may have transformed their party rooms into additional seating areas, expanded kitchen spaces, or other functional areas. McDonald’s may have decided to remove party rooms altogether from certain locations due to various reasons. Factors such as limited demand, space constraints, evolving restaurant layouts, or changes in business strategies could have contributed to the removal or replacement of party rooms.
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Nap Time
Nap time in elementary schools refers to a time during the school day when students are provided with an opportunity to rest and recharge through a short period of sleep or relaxation. In general, nap time tends to be more common in early childhood settings, such as preschools and kindergartens, where children are typically younger and may still require regular periods of rest during the day. As children progress into elementary school, nap time is less common, and the focus shifts towards uninterrupted academic instruction and structured activities. The specific age at which schools stop providing dedicated nap time varies. In many cases, schools phase out nap time by the time children enter first or second grade, which is usually around the ages of 6 or 7. This transition is often aligned with the developmental needs and expectations of older elementary school students. They require less sleep during the day.
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Daddy Came Home
This is a heartwarming photograph of a father coming home after World War II. As you can see, they decorated their house with the British flags to celebrate him fighting for their country. Here in the United States, we see a lot of homecoming stories on the news. but it’s rare to see something like this come out of history. Growing up with a father in the military can be tough. So it’s beautiful to see a warm homecoming that ends up with a happy ending.
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AC Coming From a Pipe
In the 1960s, air conditioning in cars was becoming increasingly popular and accessible. The AC system in cars during that era typically consisted of a compressor, condenser, evaporator, and a system of ducts to distribute the cooled air. The system was not as advanced as modern car AC systems, and the cooling capacity may not have been as powerful or efficient. As technology advanced and demand increased, air conditioning became more common and accessible in cars over subsequent decades. Modern car AC systems have seen significant improvements in efficiency, performance, and environmental impact, thanks to advancements in refrigerants, compressor designs, and control systems.
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In Fascist Italy, Kids Were Trained For the Military at a Very Early Age
During the fascist regime in Italy under Benito Mussolini, there was a glorification of the military. Youth organizations and programs were established to instill fascist values and prepare young people for military service. The Balilla and Avanguardisti were two fascist youth organizations that aimed to indoctrinate young boys and girls with fascist ideology and prepare them for future military service. The Balilla organization focused on boys aged 8 to 14, while the Avanguardisti targeted teens. Within these youth organizations, military-style training was incorporated to teach discipline and combat skills. Alongside military training, the youth organizations emphasized ideological indoctrination to foster loyalty to the fascist regime. Participants in these youth organizations wore distinctive uniforms, similar to military attire. As children progressed through the youth organizations, they could join paramilitary units. After the fall of Mussolini’s fascist regime in 1943, the youth organizations were disbanded, and their activities were discontinued.
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An Irish Dinner of Potatoes and Milk
An Irish dinner of potatoes and milk refers to a simple and traditional meal that was common in Ireland, particularly during times of economic hardship. Historically, Ireland heavily relied on potatoes as a staple food due to their availability and ability to grow in the country’s soil. The meal’s simplicity reflects the limited resources and economic circumstances of the time. Potatoes and milk were readily available, affordable, and could be easily obtained by both rural and urban populations. However, it’s important to note that this depiction of Irish cuisine does not represent the full range and diversity of traditional Irish dishes. While potatoes were a significant part of the Irish diet, especially before the Great Famine in the mid-19th century, the cuisine has evolved and encompasses a broader variety of ingredients and dishes.
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The Harlem Debutante Ball
The Harlem Debutante Ball, also known as the Harlem Junior Assemblies, was a significant event in the African American community. It provided an opportunity for young African American women from Harlem, New York, to be formally introduced into society. The Harlem Debutante Ball originated in 1952 as a response to the racial exclusion and limited opportunities for African American women in mainstream debutante balls. They were predominantly held for white women. The ball was organized by Harlem community leaders and organizations, including the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority and the New York Amsterdam News newspaper. It served as a showcase for young African American women who had excelled academically, socially, and culturally. The participants, known as debutantes, went through a selection process based on criteria such as academic achievement, community involvement, and leadership qualities. They were then presented at the ball, wearing elegant gowns and accompanied by escorts.
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Kids Jumping Out a Window Onto a Pile of Mattresses Completely Unsupervised
Almost everyone has wild stories of stupid things they did growing up. But this one takes the cake. These kids have a pile of mattresses sitting outside of a second story window. They’re jumping out of a building onto the mattresses going one by one. Someone with a camera decided to photograph what was happening, but they didn’t do anything to stop the kids from potentially breaking a leg. Nowadays, kids would not get away with this. Someone would be calling the cops almost immediately. But that’s why photos like this are a time capsule to a very different era of child rearing.
Credit: Rare Historical Photos
Dangerous Playgrounds From the 1900’s
Playground equipment in the 1900s often featured tall and challenging structures, such as high slides, tall swings, and tall climbing frames. These structures had minimal or no safety barriers, and falls from heights were a common risk. Playgrounds typically had hard surfaces like concrete or packed dirt. This increased the risk of injuries, especially from falls off swings, slides, or climbing structures. Metal and wood were commonly used, which increased the risk of cuts, bruises, and other injuries. Playground safety standards were not well-established during this time. Playgrounds in the 1900s often lacked regular maintenance, making them susceptible to deterioration and hazards. Rusty or broken equipment, loose screws, splintered wood, and other potential dangers were not always promptly addressed. Over time, as awareness grew regarding child safety and injury prevention, significant changes were made in playground design and safety regulations. Today, playgrounds are designed with a strong focus on safety.
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Babies Suspended in Cages for “Fresh Air”
During the early to mid-20th century, there was a practice of using hanging or suspended cages for babies as a means of providing fresh air and sunlight. These cages were commonly referred to as “baby cages” or “baby cribs”. They were primarily used in densely populated urban areas, particularly in cities like London and New York. The intention behind using these cages was to expose infants to fresh air and sunlight. It was thought that the outdoor air and sunlight would help prevent illness, improve bone development, and enhance overall vitality. The practice was especially popular during periods when there was limited access to open spaces and gardens. Over time, the use of these hanging baby cages declined. Concerns about potential accidents, weather conditions, and environmental pollutants led to a shift away from this practice.
Credit: Rare Historical Photos
Children With Polio in Iron Lungs
Prior to the development of polio vaccines, iron lungs were used as a life-saving intervention for people affected by polio. Polio, or poliomyelitis, is a viral infection that primarily affects the nervous system, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis. The iron lung was a large, cylindrical chamber made of metal or fiberglass. It operated by creating negative pressure around the patient’s chest, enabling them to breathe. Children with polio who experienced paralysis of the muscles required assistance to breathe. Iron lungs were designed to help these individuals maintain adequate ventilation and receive oxygen. Children affected by polio would lie inside the iron lung for extended periods. Sometimes for weeks or months, depending on the severity of their condition. However, the iron lung provided essential respiratory support, allowing them to breathe.
Credit: Rare Historical Photos
The Soviet Family Who Raised Lions as Pets
There is a well-known story of a Soviet family who reportedly raised lions as pets during the 1970s. The family consisted of Yuri and Natalya Alexandrovich and their two sons, Dmitri and Boris. The Alexandroviches’ fascination with lions began when they acquired a lion cub named Katia from a zoo in 1971. Over time, their collection grew, and they acquired two more lion cubs, named Gavryusha and Masha. The family kept the lions in their apartment, which led to considerable media attention and curiosity. In 1981, the Soviet authorities decided to relocate the lions to a zoo in Moscow. The Alexandroviches were reportedly devastated by the separation.
Credit: Rare Historical PhotosMugshots of Victorian Child Criminals
During the Victorian era (1837-1901), the use of photography in law enforcement began to gain popularity. As part of this, mugshots, or “rogues’ galleries,” started to be taken to document the appearance of criminals. Child offenders, like their adult counterparts, were subjected to the practice of having their mugshots taken. These photographs captured the faces and appearances of children who were arrested or involved in criminal activities. Victorian society had a complex approach to child offenders. While there was recognition of childhood vulnerability, there was also a belief in the need for punishment and reform. Mugshots of child criminals served multiple purposes, including criminal identification, and documentation of their offenses. Today, these photographs serve as historical documents. They shed light on the social conditions, law enforcement practices, and attitudes towards juvenile crime during the Victorian period.