Life Magazine's 'V-J Day in Times Square' (1945)
PhotographAbout
"V-J Day in Times Square" is an iconic photograph taken by Alfred Eisenstaedt on August 14, 1945. It captures a spontaneous moment of a U.S. Navy sailor embracing and kissing a dental assistant, mistakenly believed to be a nurse, amidst the celebrations marking the end of World War II. The image was published in Life magazine and became an instant cultural icon, symbolizing joy and relief. Eisenstaedt used a Leica IIIa camera to capture this moment, taking only four shots before selecting the most balanced composition. The photograph's enduring appeal lies in its powerful symbolism of victory and peace. Despite the identities of the couple being a mystery for decades, they were later identified as George Mendonsa and Greta Friedman. The contrast between the sailor's dark uniform and the dental assistant's white dress adds visual impact. Another photographer, Victor Jorgensen, captured a similar scene, which is in the public domain. Eisenstaedt's version remains protected by copyright and is widely regarded as one of the most iconic images of the 20th century.
