The flag being raised by American soldiers at Iwo Jima is arguably the most iconic photo taken during World War II. Now commemorated by a statue at the Marine Corps War Memorial in Washington D.C., the iconic scene will be forever remembered. However, other photos taken by war photographer Louis Lowery have sparked controversy about what truly took place that day.
The real story goes, that photographer Louis Lowery was at the summit taking pictures of a smaller flag being raised, when celebratory gunshots went off. When Lowery ducked for cover, he broke his camera lense. As he was walk down to camp to get new equipment, he passed fellow photographer Rosenthal — who was heading the summit to take photos as well. By the time Rosenthal reached the top, new soldiers had received orders to replace the small American flag that Lowery had photographed with a bigger flag that could be seen from farther away. This bigger, replacement flag is the scene that gained such immense popularity.
So, is this iconic photograph the initial flag raised at Iwo Jima? No, but the photograph taken was not manufactured for the sole purpose of taking a good picture. The flag in the photo was being raised to remind the entire island of the U.S.'s victory.
I think your post is very interesting. I had no idea that one of the most popular images of world war II was an exaggeration of the first one.
ReplyDeleteGood job explaining this event and clearing up the controversy. Also, as you hinted towards the end, this image had a big impact on the war effort. Upon publication, it was seen in newspapers around the world, and it increased morale and patriotism in the American audience, helping along the war effort.
ReplyDeleteFor more information on this image:
http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/22/world/cnnphotos-iwo-jima/