Pioneering photographer and journalist who captured iconic images of the Great Depression and World War II, and was the first woman to fly on a combat mission.
Margaret Bourke-White was a trailblazing American photographer and documentary photographer, best known for being the first foreign photographer permitted to take pictures of Soviet industry under the Soviets' first five-year plan, and for capturing the iconic construction of Fort Peck Dam, which graced the cover of the first issue of Life magazine.
Born Margaret White on June 14, 1904, in the Bronx, New York, she was the daughter of Joseph White, a non-practicing Jew of Polish descent, and Minnie Bourke, of Irish Catholic heritage. Growing up in Middlesex, New Jersey, Margaret developed an interest in photography, encouraged by her father's enthusiasm for cameras.
In 1922, Margaret began studying herpetology at Columbia University, but her interest in photography soon took over. She left after one semester, following the death of her father, and transferred to several colleges, finally finding her calling under the mentorship of Clarence White (no relation) at Columbia.
Margaret's upbringing by her "free-thinking" parents instilled in her a strong desire for self-improvement and a commitment to advancing humanity through personal achievement. Her photography reflected this philosophy, capturing the essence of human endeavor and progress.
Margaret Bourke-White's groundbreaking work paved the way for future generations of female photographers, and her contributions to the field of documentary photography continue to inspire and influence photographers today.
"The camera is a wonderful instrument for education, and I want to use it that way."
Margaret Bourke-White passed away on August 27, 1971, leaving behind a legacy of pioneering spirit, groundbreaking photography, and a lasting impact on the world of documentary photography.
Born in 1921
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