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Norman Rockwell: Imagining Freedom

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  • About
    • About the Exhibition
    • Rockwell’s Four Freedoms
    • Freedom’s Legacy
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    • PAST THEME: The War Generation
    • PAST THEME: FDR’s Four Freedoms
    • PAST THEME: The Artistic Response
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    • Interactive Timeline
    • The Unity Project
    • Reimagining the Four Freedoms
    • Curriculum Lab: K-12 Lesson Plans
    • Speeches of Freedom
    • Potent Pictures: Propaganda Posters
    • Students: Reimagining the Four Freedoms
    • Interpretations of the Four Freedoms by Students in France
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Interactive Timeline

The interactive timeline below depicts important events and milestones relevant to this exhibition, from the period of the early 1930’s through today.  Events are tracked across three categories:

Franklin D. Roosevelt

Norman Rockwell 

world events

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The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) Roosevelt’s New Deal

1933 / 1930s

The largest project launched in the first hundred days of Roosevelt’s first term

Japan announces its withdrawal

1933 / 1930s

Withdrawal from the League of Nations after a resolution is passed declaring the Japanese occupation of Manchuria illegal

Franklin D. Roosevelt becomes the 32nd President of the United States of America

Franklin D. Roosevelt becomes the 32nd President of the United States of America

March 4, 1933 / 1930s

During his speech, FDR utters this now famous line, “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.”

President Roosevelt gives the first “Fireside Chat”

President Roosevelt gives the first “Fireside Chat”

March 12, 1933 / 1930s

Broadcasting from the White House, Washington, D.C.

The first of many ‘fireside chats’ –  FDR declares a “bank holiday,” temporarily closing all national banks and meets with Congress to discuss the Bank Crisis 

Photo: Public Domain

 

President Hindenburg appoints Adolf Hitler chancellor of the German republic

President Hindenburg appoints Adolf Hitler chancellor of the German republic

March 21, 1933 12:00 am / 1930s

FDR – “Fireside Chat”

May 7, 1933 / 1930s

President Roosevelt’s “Fireside Chat” – Outlining the New Deal Program

Radio Address of the President:

To you, the people of this country, all of us, the Members of the Congress and the members of this Administration owe a profound debt of gratitude. Throughout the depression you have been patient. You have granted us wide powers, you have encouraged us with a wide-spread approval of our purposes. Every ounce of strength and every resource at our command we have devoted to the end of justifying your confidence. We are encouraged to believe that a wise and sensible beginning has been made. In the present spirit of mutual confidence and mutual encouragement we go forward.- President Franklin D. Roosevelt

FDR “Fireside Chat”

July 24, 1933 / 1930s

First Hundred Days: The Purposes and Foundations of the Recovery Program 

 

Prohibition Ends

Prohibition Ends

December 5, 1933 / 1930s

Prohibition is lifted in the USA when the Twenty-First Amendment repeals the Eighteenth, which has been in force for 13 years.

Mrs. Roosevelt helps to launch a campaign by women

Mrs. Roosevelt helps to launch a campaign by women

January 15, 1934 / 1930s

A women run campaign for the Roosevelt Administration’s recovery projects in the Democratic National Committee.

Photo Credit:  Mrs. Roosevelt in Puerto Rico – with fellow friends and feminists, including, Emma Bugbee, a journalist who covered the First Lady, as a reporter and friend. Bugbee’s reporting helped to promote the Roosevelt administration in a positive light

Photo: Courtesy of the FDR Library Photograph Collection

 

 

President Roosevelt encourages “Birthday Balls” 

President Roosevelt encourages “Birthday Balls” 

January 30, 1934 / 1930s

President Roosevelt uses his birthday to encourage Americans to host “Birthday Balls” to raise awareness and money for the Georgia Warm Springs Foundation – founded in 1927 as a polio rehabilitation center.

Photo: Courtesy of the FDR Library Photograph Collection

“Fireside Chat”

“Fireside Chat”

June 28, 1934 / 1930s

President Roosevelt’s “Fireside Chat” on the merits of the recovery program 

Photo: Public Domain

FDR “Fireside Chat”

FDR “Fireside Chat”

September 30, 1934 / 1930s

President Roosevelt delivers “Fireside Chat” on Moving Forward to Greater Freedom and Security

Photo: Public Domain

Rockwell’s “Tiny Tim and Bob Cratchit,” published cover

Rockwell’s “Tiny Tim and Bob Cratchit,” published cover

December 15, 1934 12:00 am / 1930s

Tiny Tim and Bob Cratchit (God Bless Us Everyone), Norman Rockwell. 1934. Oil on canvas, 55” x 31” Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, December 15, 1934 ©1934 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

Mrs. Roosevelt is the honored guest at the Cause and Cure of War Conference

Mrs. Roosevelt is the honored guest at the Cause and Cure of War Conference

January 22, 1935 / 1930s

Photo: Public Domain

This year President Roosevelt’s annual “Birthday-Balls” celebration

This year President Roosevelt’s annual “Birthday-Balls” celebration

January 30, 1935 / 1930s

Fundraising money to be given to local infantile paralysis treatment centers across the country and to medical research to find a cure

Photo: Courtesy of the FDR Library

FDR – “Fireside Chat”

FDR – “Fireside Chat”

April 28, 1935 / 1930s

Works Progress Administration and Social Security

President Roosevelt speaks on the establishment of the work relief program, which includes the structure of Social Security

Photo: Public Domain

Roosevelt signs the Social Security Act into law

Roosevelt signs the Social Security Act into law

August 14, 1935 / 1930s

Photo: Public Domain

First meeting of the Social Security Board

First meeting of the Social Security Board

September 14, 1935 / 1930s

The Social Security operations was made up of three operating bureaus: Public Assistance, Unemployment Compensation, and Old-Age Benefits 

Photo: Courtesy of SSA History Museum & Archives.

President Roosevelt & the leader of the NAACP

January 2, 1936 / 1930s

Mrs. Roosevelt secures a meeting with Walter White, leader of the NAACP, and President Roosevelt

President Roosevelt gives a speech at the American Museum of Natural History

President Roosevelt gives a speech at the American Museum of Natural History

January 19, 1936 / 1930s

A dedication ceremony of the Theodore Roosevelt Wing – New York

Theodore Roosevelt is seen here pointing out his explorations

Photo: Creative Commons

Photo Credit: Theodore Roosevelt

Social Security (SS-5) applications

Social Security (SS-5) applications

1936 / 1930s

Postal carriers delivering Social Security (SS-5) application forms

Photo: Courtesy of SSA History Museum & Archives

Rockwell illustrates the Heritage Press Edition of “Tom Sawyer”

Rockwell illustrates the Heritage Press Edition of “Tom Sawyer”

March 6, 1936 / 1930s

Tom Sawyer “Well, I don’t see why I oughtn’t to like it.” , Norman Rockwell. 1936
Oil on canvas, 17.5 x 13.75″ Illustration for The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, 1936

Movie “Starlet and Reporters” published cover

Movie “Starlet and Reporters” published cover

May 7, 1936 / 1930s

Movie Starlet and Reporters, 1936. Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, March 7 1936. ©1936 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN.

“Love Ouanga” – Illustration

“Love Ouanga” – Illustration

1936 / 1930s

Love Ouanga ‘Spice slumped on a bench…’, Norman Rockwell. 1945 Oil on canvas, 30 x 62″ Illustration for American Magazine, June 1936. Collection of the National Museum of American Illustration

FDR “Fireside Chat”

FDR “Fireside Chat”

September 6, 1936 / 1930s

Drought Conditions and the Plight of Farmers 

Photo: Courtesy of Library of Congress (Harris & Ewing, photographer)

FDR is elected for a second US presidential term with an increased share of the vote

FDR is elected for a second US presidential term with an increased share of the vote

November 3, 1936 / 1930s

Photo: Public Domain

President Roosevelt orders two battleships to be built

President Roosevelt orders two battleships to be built

January 8, 1937 / 1930s

In response to foreign powers decline to renew treaties limiting navel armaments

Photo of USS Yorktown – example of Battleship to be built

Photo: Courtesy of the Naval History and Heritage Command

President Roosevelt appoints Thomas Edison’s son, Charles Edison

President Roosevelt appoints Thomas Edison’s son, Charles Edison

January 18, 1937 / 1930s

FDR appoints, Charles Edison, Assistant Secretary of the Navy

Photo: Public Domain

Photo Credit: Charles Edison

Norman Rockwell creates 13-foot-wide Yankee Doodle Mural for Nassau Inn

Norman Rockwell creates 13-foot-wide Yankee Doodle Mural for Nassau Inn

1937 / 1930s

Yankee Doodle (Mural), 1937. Oil on canvas, 60 x 152″ Mural for the Nassau Inn, 1937.

Hindenburg Explosion

Hindenburg Explosion

May 6, 1937 / 1930s

German airship bursts into flames trying to land at Lakehurst, NJ

Photo: Courtesy of National Archives

 

Congress rejects President Roosevelt’s proposed reform of the US Supreme Court

1937 / 1930s

Rejection due to amid furious accusations that he is trying to pack the Court with his nominees

FDR signs the second Agricultural Adjustment Act

February 16, 1938 / 1930s
Rockwell purchases home in Arlington, VT

Rockwell purchases home in Arlington, VT

1938 / 1930s
Norman Rockwell’s Heart’s Dearest, “Why Do You Cry?” illustration

Norman Rockwell’s Heart’s Dearest, “Why Do You Cry?” illustration

1938 / 1930s

Norman Rockwell (1894-1978), Heart’s Dearest, 1938 Oil on canvas, 32” x 18″ Story illustration for Woman’s Home Companion, March 1938 Norman Rockwell Museum Collections. ©Norman Rockwell Family Agency. All rights reserved.

U.S.A. – Minimum wage is 40 cents / hour

1938 / 1930s

44 hour working week

The tragic face of ‘Hitlerism’

The tragic face of ‘Hitlerism’

1938 / 1930s

Sudeten woman forced to salute Hitler

Photo: National Archives

Fair Labor Standards Act 

Fair Labor Standards Act 

1938 / 1930s

Fair law passed for “labor of persons under eighteen years of age”

Photo: Courtesy of National Archives, Records of Children’s Bureau

Rockwell travels to England

1938 / 1930s

He meets several famous illustrators, including Arthur Rackham

Congress passes the Revenue Act of 1938

May 27, 1938 / 1930s

After FDR veto, the Revenue Act is passed to stimulate the economy by corporate income tax reduction

FDR signs the Fair Labor Standards Act

June 25, 1938 / 1930s
Rockwell’s Illustration “Artist Facing Blank Canvas,” published cover

Rockwell’s Illustration “Artist Facing Blank Canvas,” published cover

October 8, 1938 / 1930s

Artist Facing Blank Canvas (Deadline), Norman Rockwell. 1938 Oil on canvas, 38 ½ x 30 ½” Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, October 8, 1938 From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum ©1938 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

Mrs. Roosevelt goes on record in favor of passing the federal anti-lynching bill

January 13, 1939 / 1930s

At the Second National Conference on Problems of the Negro and Negro Youth

Rockwell befriends John Atherton & Mead Schaeffer

1939 / 1930s

Two other illustrators living in Arlington, VT

Rockwell’s “A Scout is Helpful,” first seen in Boy Scout calendar

Rockwell’s “A Scout is Helpful,” first seen in Boy Scout calendar

1939 / 1930s

A Scout is Helpful, Norman Rockwell. 1941. Oil on canvas, 34 x 24” Illustration for Boy Scouts of America Calendar From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum Licensed by Norman Rockwell Licensing Company, Niles, IL

German-born US physicist Albert Einstein writes to President Roosevelt

German-born US physicist Albert Einstein writes to President Roosevelt

August 2, 1939 / 1930s

The letter is a warning of the potential of an atomic bomb

Photo: Public Domain

Photo Credit: Albert Einstein

Social Security amendments

Social Security amendments

August 10, 1939 / 1930s

Social Security amendments advanced the start date for monthly benefits – poster informing the public about the amendments

Photo: Courtesy of SSA History Museum & Archives

FDR – “Fireside Chat”

FDR – “Fireside Chat”

September 3, 1939 / 1930s

President Roosevelt speaks on, the war in Europe – The radio press is there to capture his ‘fireside chat’ 

Photo: Public Domain

FDR signs the Neutrality Act of 1939

November 4, 1939 / 1930s

Prime Minister – Winston Churchill

1940 / 1940s

Winston Churchill delivers his first speech to the House of Commons as prime minister – he offers the nation nothing but ‘blood, toil, tears and sweat’

Rockwell illustrates the Heritage Edition of “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn”

Rockwell illustrates the Heritage Edition of “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn”

1940 / 1940s

“Lemme see him, Huck. My he’s pretty stiff!” , Norman Rockwell. 1940 Illustration for The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, 1940.

FDR signs the Selective Training and Service Act

1940 / 1940s

Authorizing the first peace-time military draft in U.S. history

FDR – “Fireside Chat”

May 26, 1940 / 1940s

National Defense and Military Readiness (May 26, 1940) WH

President Roosevelt speaks to the American public, reassuring the nation that the US is prepared to deal with threats and points out that military strength is expanding

Rockwell’s “A Scout is Loyal,” in Boy Scout calendar

Rockwell’s “A Scout is Loyal,” in Boy Scout calendar

1940 / 1940s

A Scout is Loyal, Norman Rockwell. 1940 Oil on canvas, 31 1/8 x 29 1/8″ Illustration for Boys’ Life, February 1942

President Roosevelt, campaigning for a third term

October 3, 1940 / 1940s

He assures Americans that he will not send their sons to fight in Europe’s war

FDR wins an unprecedented third US presidential term

FDR wins an unprecedented third US presidential term

November 5, 1940 / 1940s

Albeit it with a considerably reduced share of the vote

Photo: Public Domain

Photo Credit: Campaign Photo, Franklin D. Roosevelt

President Roosevelt – Delivers the “Four Freedoms”

President Roosevelt – Delivers the “Four Freedoms”

January 6, 1941 / 1940s

President Roosevelt defines to Congress his concept 

Four Freedoms – of speech, of worship, from want, from fear

Photo: Engraving of the Four Freedoms at the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial in Washington, D.C.

Photo: Creative Commons

“Four Freedoms” – promotion begins

“Four Freedoms” – promotion begins

January 6, 1941 / 1940s

Poster promoting FDR’s Four Freedoms 

Photo: Public Domain

Rockwell’s “Girl Reading the Post,” published cover

Rockwell’s “Girl Reading the Post,” published cover

March 1, 1941 / 1940s

Girl Reading the Post, Norman Rockwell. 1941. Oil on canvas, 35 ¼” x 27 ¼ “ Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, March 1, 1941 From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum ©1941 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

The US army invests in a significant new vehicle – ordering 16,000 jeeps

1941 / 1940s

Congress passes the Lend-lease Act

March 11, 1941 / 1940s

Lend-lease Act enables President Roosevelt to provide much needed help to US allies

Rockwell’s Illustration “Strictly a Sharpshooter”

Rockwell’s Illustration “Strictly a Sharpshooter”

1941 / 1940s

Strictly a Sharpshooter, Norman Rockwell. 1941, Oil on canvas, 30” x 71” Story illustration for American Magazine, June 1941 From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum. © Norman Rockwell Family Agency

Roosevelt appoints Douglas MacArthur

Roosevelt appoints Douglas MacArthur

July 26, 1941 / 1940s

MacArthur appointed commander of US forces in the Far East

Photo: Public Domain

Roosevelt and Churchill claim the future

August 14, 1941 / 1940s

Roosevelt and Churchill publish a joint Atlantic Charter, foreseeing a future free from ‘Nazi tyranny’

Roosevelt and Churchill

Roosevelt and Churchill

August 14, 1941 / 1940s

Roosevelt and Churchill publish a joint Atlantic Charter, foreseeing a future free from ‘Nazi tyranny’

Their relationship grew throughout the war, and in the end was authentically self-serving, candid, and strongly connected 

Photo: Courtesy of the FDR Library Photograph Collection

FDR – “Fireside Chat”

FDR – “Fireside Chat”

September 11, 1941 / 1940s

President Roosevelt speaks on Freedom of the Seas 

Photo: Public Domain

Rockwell’s “Willie Gillis: Package from Home,”  published cover

Rockwell’s “Willie Gillis: Package from Home,” published cover

October 4, 1941 / 1940s

Willie Gillis: Food Package, Norman Rockwell. 1941 Oil on canvas, 38 x 50″
Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, October 4 1941 ©1941 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

Attack on Pearl Harbor

Attack on Pearl Harbor

December 7, 1941 / 1940s

Aftermath of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor

Photo:  Courtesy of the Franklin Roosevelt Library

“A date which will live in infamy.”

“A date which will live in infamy.”

December 8, 1941 / 1940s

President Roosevelt declares “a date which will live in infamy.” Congress responds by declaring war on Japan.

Photo: Public Domain

Photo Credits: Vice President Henry Wallace, Speaker of the House Sam Rayburn, Rayburn, is Roosevelt’s son James

FDR – “Fireside Chat”

FDR – “Fireside Chat”

December 9, 1941 / 1940s

President Roosevelt signs the declaration of war against Imperial Japan, and then speaks to the nation on War with Japan 

Photo: Public Domain

President Roosevelt – “United Nations” inception

President Roosevelt – “United Nations” inception

January 1, 1942 / 1940s

President Roosevelt informally meets with Winston Churchill, Soviet Foreign Minister Maxim Litvinov, and Chinese Ambassador T.V. Son

They sign a declaration pledge for liberty, religious freedom, and the preservation of human rights. FDR later names this coalition the “United Nations”

Photo: Public Domain

Image Credit: Poster created during the Second World War (1943)

The Roosevelt administration

January 10, 1942 / 1940s

Supported price control bill is voted by the Senate 83 to 1

FDR – “Fireside Chat”

FDR – “Fireside Chat”

February 23, 1942 / 1940s

President Roosevelt speaks on Progress of the War 

Photo: Public Domain

Rockwell begins work on “Four Freedoms”

1942 / 1940s
Rockwell creates US Army War Poster, “Let’s Give Him Enough and On Time”

Rockwell creates US Army War Poster, “Let’s Give Him Enough and On Time”

1942 / 1940s

Let’s Give Him Enough and on Time, Norman Rockwell. 1942 Oil on canvas, 42 x 50″
United States Army, 1942 Collection of the United States Army Center of Military History

Black Americans fighting a war for the “four freedoms”

Black Americans fighting a war for the “four freedoms”

1942 / 1940s

Fighting for America with strong convictions to achieve and demand the same rights as all citizens 

Photo: Courtesy of National Archives

Photo Credits: Drivers of the 666th Quartermaster Truck Company, 82nd Airborne Division

Rockwell’s Illustration of “Aunt Ella Takes a Trip,” published

Rockwell’s Illustration of “Aunt Ella Takes a Trip,” published

1942 / 1940s

Aunt Ella Takes a Trip, Norman Rockwell. 1942. Oil on canvas. Story illustration for Ladies’ Home Journal, April 1942 From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum. © Norman Rockwell Family Agency

American prisoners of war celebrate the 4th of July

American prisoners of war celebrate the 4th of July

July 4, 1942 / 1940s

Americans in the Japanese prison camp – they celebrated despite all the rules against it

Photo: Courtesy of National Archives

FDR appoints Anna M. Rosenberg

1942 / 1940s

To the National Recovery Administration and then to War Manpower Commission as Regional Director. She is the first woman to serve as a Regional Manager for Social Security

FDR – “Fireside Chat”

October 12, 1942 / 1940s

President Roosevelt speaks on Report on the Home Front 

FDR brings forth many subjects of discussion, including a workforce of women, the imperative after-war need for peace time, and the drafting age

We, therefore, fight for the restoration and perpetuation of faith and hope and peace throughout the world.

The objective of today is clear and realistic. It is to destroy completely the military power of Germany, Italy, and Japan to such good purpose that their threat against us and all the other United Nations cannot be revived a generation hence. We are united in seeking the kind of victory that will guarantee that our grandchildren can grow and, under God, may live their lives, free from the constant threat of invasion, destruction, slavery, and violent death. 
- President Franklin D. Roosevelt

 

 

President Roosevelt talks about the United Nations at a press conference

January 1, 1943 / 1940s

He states that maintaining peace is the most important objective

President Roosevelt and Prime Minister Winston Churchill

President Roosevelt and Prime Minister Winston Churchill

January 22, 1943 / 1940s

Meet in Casablanca for a strategic conference

Photo: Courtesy of the Roosevelt Library

First Lady Roosevelt christens the USS Yorktown

First Lady Roosevelt christens the USS Yorktown

January 22, 1943 / 1940s

Photo: Creative Commons

Rockwell’s “Freedom of Speech,”  published illustration

Rockwell’s “Freedom of Speech,” published illustration

February 20, 1943 / 1940s

Freedom of Speech, Norman Rockwell. 1943. Oil on canvas, 45 ¾” x 35 ½” Story illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, February 20, 1943 From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum

Rockwell’s “Freedom of Worship,” published illustration

Rockwell’s “Freedom of Worship,” published illustration

February 27, 1943 / 1940s

Freedom of Worship, Norman Rockwell. 1943. Oil on canvas, 46” x 35 ½” Story illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, February 27, 1943 From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum ©1943 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

Rosie the Riveter – World War II Icon

Rosie the Riveter – World War II Icon

1943 / 1940s

“We Can Do it!” inspirational campaign image by J. Howard Miller

Photo: Public Domain

Women Welders

Women Welders

1943 / 1940s

Photo: Courtesy of National Archives

Rockwell’s “Freedom from Want,” published illustration

Rockwell’s “Freedom from Want,” published illustration

March 6, 1943 / 1940s

Freedom from Want, Norman Rockwell. 1943. Oil on canvas, 45 ¾ x 35 ½” Story illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, March 6, 1943 From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum ©1943 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

Rockwell’s “Freedom from Fear,” published illustration

Rockwell’s “Freedom from Fear,” published illustration

March 13, 1943 / 1940s

Freedom from Fear, Norman Rockwell. 1943. Oil on canvas, 45 ¾” x 35 ½” Story illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, March 13, 1943 From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum ©1943 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

Four Freedoms War Bonds Tour

Four Freedoms War Bonds Tour

April 30, 1943 / 1940s
Rockwell’s studio burns down

Rockwell’s studio burns down

May 15, 1943 / 1940s

My Studio Burns, Norman Rockwell. 1943 Charcoal on paper, 21.5 x 17″ Drawing for The Saturday Evening Post story illustration, July 17, 1943 ©1943 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

Rockwell’s “Rosie the Riveter,” published cover

Rockwell’s “Rosie the Riveter,” published cover

May 29, 1943 / 1940s

Rosie the Riveter, Norman Rockwell. 1943. Oil on canvas, 52” x 40” Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, May 29, 1943 Permanent collection at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art ©1943 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

The War Refugee Board is formed by FDR

January 2, 1944 / 1940s

The board is formed for the rescue of persecuted minorities of Europe

Mrs. Roosevelt “My Day” column

January 5, 1944 / 1940s

She explains the deceitful strategies of developing segregated neighborhoods

FDR – “Fireside Chat”

FDR – “Fireside Chat”

January 11, 1944 / 1940s

President Roosevelt – State of the Union: National Service and Economic Bill of Rights

Photo: Public Domain

General Douglas MacArthur

General Douglas MacArthur

1944 / 1940s

General Douglas MacArthur wades ashore during initial landings at Leyte, P.I.

Photo: Courtesy of National Archives

Rockwell creates war poster “Mine America’s Coal,” for the US Office of War Information

Rockwell creates war poster “Mine America’s Coal,” for the US Office of War Information

1944 / 1940s

Mine America’s Coal (Portrait of a Coal Miner), Norman Rockwell. 1943. Oil on canvas, 21” x 14” Poster for U.S. Office of War Information. From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum Licensed by Norman Rockwell Licensing Company, Niles, IL.

Rockwell’s Illustration “The Homecoming,” published cover

Rockwell’s Illustration “The Homecoming,” published cover

May 26, 1944 / 1940s

The Homecoming, Norman Rockwell. 1945. Oil on canvas, 28 x 22″. Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, May 26 1945. ©1945 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN.

FDR – “Fireside Chat”

June 12, 1944 / 1940s

Launching the Fifth War Loan Drive (June 12, 1944)

I urge all Americans to buy War Bonds without stint. Swell the mighty chorus to bring us nearer to victory! 
- President Franklin D. Roosevelt
Rockwell’s Illustration “The Fighting Gillises,” published cover

Rockwell’s Illustration “The Fighting Gillises,” published cover

September 16, 1944 / 1940s

The Fighting Gillises, Norman Rockwell. 1944 Oil on canvas, 13.25 x 10.625″ Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, September 16, 1944. ©1944 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN Private collection

President Roosevelt is elected for a fourth term

President Roosevelt is elected for a fourth term

November 7, 1944 / 1940s

President Roosevelt, although seriously ill, is elected for a fourth term with Harry S. Truman as his vice-president

Photo: Public Domain

FDR’s LAST – “Fireside Chat”

January 6, 1945 / 1940s

President Roosevelt gives his last message to Congress on Return from Yalta Conference.  

Work-or-Fight and Vision for the United Nations

Roosevelt, Stalin and Churchill meet

Roosevelt, Stalin and Churchill meet

February 4, 1945 / 1940s

The three leaders meet at Yalta to discuss Allied post-war plans

Roosevelt, Stalin and Churchill

Mrs. Roosevelt’s column “My Day” column

February 9, 1945 / 1940s

She writes about the joy of going to see an American-folk Broadway Musical Sing Out, Sweet Land!

Rockwell’s Illustration “April Fool: Fishing,” published cover

Rockwell’s Illustration “April Fool: Fishing,” published cover

March 31, 1945 / 1940s

April Fool: Fishing, Norman Rockwell. 1945 Oil on canvas, 13.25 x 10.625″ Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, March 31 1945. ©1945 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN. Whereabouts unknown

President Franklin D. Roosevelt dies

President Franklin D. Roosevelt dies

April 12, 1945 / 1940s

Last photo of President Roosevelt – April 11, 1945

He is succeeded by his vice-president, Harry S. Truman

Photo: Public Domain

Famous Comedian Mickey Rooney entertains the troops

Famous Comedian Mickey Rooney entertains the troops

April 13, 1945 12:00 am / 1940s

Rooney is apart of a jeep tour with three other professional entertainers on a mission to entertain the troops and build morale

Photo: Courtesy of National Archives

President Roosevelt’s funeral procession

President Roosevelt’s funeral procession

April 14, 1945 / 1940s

Washington, D.C.

Photo: Public Domain

USS Bunker Hill

USS Bunker Hill

May 11, 1945 12:00 am / 1940s

Two Kamikazes hit USS Bunker Hill, of Kyushu, killing 372 and wounding 264

Photo: Courtesy of National Archives

WW II ENDS

1945 / 1940s
Rockwell’s Illustration “Mother and Son Peeling Potatoes,” published cover

Rockwell’s Illustration “Mother and Son Peeling Potatoes,” published cover

November 24, 1945 / 1940s

Thanksgiving: Mother and Son Peeling Potatoes, Norman Rockwell. 1945. Oil on canvas Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, November 24, 1945 Private collection ©1945 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

Book on Norman Rockwell by Arthur Guptill is published

1946 / 1940s

Norman Rockwell: Illustrator – The “American man,” this book documents b Norman Rockwell’s life’s work.

Author Eleanor Roosevelt

1946 / 1940s

She writes Why I Do Not Choose to Run, and Human Rights and Human Freedom

President Harry S. Truman and President Herbert Hoover

President Harry S. Truman and President Herbert Hoover

June 20, 1946 / 1940s

The fight against hunger – Hoover reports on the international food council meeting of 18 nations

Photo: Harris & Ewing (Courtesy of Stock Montage)

Source: Truman Library

Eleanor Roosevelt joined the United Nations Human Rights Division

Eleanor Roosevelt joined the United Nations Human Rights Division

1946 / 1940s

Mrs. Roosevelt holding the Spanish publication of Universal Declaration of Human Rights

This includes FDR’s Four Freedoms: freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want, freedom from fear

Cuatro Libertades: libertad de expresión, libertad de culto, vivir libres de necesidad, libertad del miedo

Photo: Public Domain

“Freedom makes a huge requirement of every human being. With freedom comes responsibility. For the person who is unwilling to grow up, the person who does not want to carry his own weight, this is a frightening prospect.” 

— Eleanor Roosevelt 
American Delegate to the United Nations
Rockwell’s Illustration “Boy in Dining Car,” published cover

Rockwell’s Illustration “Boy in Dining Car,” published cover

December 7, 1946 / 1940s

Boy in a Dining Car, Norman Rockwell. 1946 Oil on canvas, 38 x 36” Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, December 7, 1946 From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum ©1946 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

George C. Marshall – sworn in as Secretary of State

George C. Marshall – sworn in as Secretary of State

January 21, 1947 / 1940s

Sworn in by Chief Justice Fred Vinson

Photo: Creative Commons

Author Eleanor Roosevelt

1947 / 1940s

She writes The Russians Are Tough, and Should a Negro Boy Ask a White Girl to Dance?

Princeton University honors three men

Princeton University honors three men

June 17, 1947 / 1940s

Honoring – General Dwight D. Eisenhower, President Harry S. Truman, and former President Herbert Hoover 

Photo: Courtesy of Truman Library

Eleonor Roosevelt – United Nations

Eleonor Roosevelt – United Nations

1947 / 1940s

Eleanor Roosevelt speaking at the United Nations

Photo: Public Domain

“I believed the United Nations to be the one hope for a peaceful world. I knew that my husband had placed great importance on the establishment of this world organization. So I felt a great sense of responsibility.” 

- Eleonor Roosevelt 
American Delegate to the United Nations
Rockwell Illustrates “Going and Coming,” published cover

Rockwell Illustrates “Going and Coming,” published cover

August 30, 1947 / 1940s

Going and Coming, Norman Rockwell. 1947. Oil on canvas; upper canvas, 16” x 31 1/2”; lower canvas, 16” x 31 1/2” Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, August 30, 1947 From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum ©1947 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

Rockwell spends time in CA, teaching at Los Angeles Art institute

1948 / 1940s

Rockwell begins creating Hallmark Christmas cards

1948 / 1940s

Eleanor Roosevelt begins ABC radio program

1948 / 1940s
Rockwell joins Famous Artists School as one of the founding faculty

Rockwell joins Famous Artists School as one of the founding faculty

1948 / 1940s

Norman Rockwell (center, bow tie), with some of the Famous Artists School’s faculty.

Rockwell’s “The Gossips,” published cover

Rockwell’s “The Gossips,” published cover

March 6, 1948 / 1940s

The Gossips, Norman Rockwell. 1948. Oil on canvas, 33” x 31” Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, March 6, 1948 Stuart Family Collection ©1948 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

Harry Truman Elected President

Harry Truman Elected President

November 3, 1948 / 1940s

“That is one for the books!” – President Elect Harry Truman trails to victory (Chicago Tribune’s election day edition error)

Photo: Courtesy of The Harry S. Truman Library and Museum

Norman Rockwell’s “Christmas Homecoming,” published cover

Norman Rockwell’s “Christmas Homecoming,” published cover

December 25, 1948 / 1940s

Christmas Homecoming, Norman Rockwell. 1948 Oil on canvas, 35 ½ x 33 ½” Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, December 25, 1948 From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum ©1948 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)

1949 / 1940s

NATO is set up by the USA and Canada, together with Britain and other European countries, for purposes of collective security

Gwendolyn Brooks – First African-American poet to win the Pulitzer Prize

Gwendolyn Brooks – First African-American poet to win the Pulitzer Prize

1949 / 1940s

Annie Allen, by US author Gwendolyn Brooks, describes in narrative verse the life of a black girl in contemporary USA

Photo: Courtesy of the History Network

Eleanor Roosevelt appears on “Meet the Press”

1949 / 1940s
Rockwell Illustrates “New Television Antenna,” published cover

Rockwell Illustrates “New Television Antenna,” published cover

November 5, 1949 / 1940s

New Television Antenna, Norman Rockwell. 1949. Oil on canvas, 46.5 x 43″ Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, November 5 1949. ©1949 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN. Collection of Los Angeles County Museum of Art

Eleanor Roosevelt begins NBC radio show

1950 / 1950s
IBM 705 mainframe computers

IBM 705 mainframe computers

1950 / 1950s

Social Security Administration (SSA) is the first to install a “high-speed electronic calculator” – SSA employees at the control console of the IBM 705 mainframe computers

Photo: Courtesy of SSA History Museum & Archives

Rockwell Illustrates “Shuffleton’s Barbershop,” published cover

Rockwell Illustrates “Shuffleton’s Barbershop,” published cover

April 29, 1950 / 1950s

Shuffleton’s Barbershop, Norman Rockwell. 1950. Oil on canvas, 33” x 31” Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, April 29, 1950 Collection of The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, Los Angeles, CA ©1950 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

Rockwell creates summer artist colony in Arlington

1950 / 1950s

Norman Rockwell designs Plymouth ad

1951 / 1950s

Merry Christmas, Grandma… We Came in Our new Plymouth!

Rockwell’s Illustration “Day in the Life of a Boy,”  published cover

Rockwell’s Illustration “Day in the Life of a Boy,” published cover

May 24, 1951 / 1950s

Day in the Life of a Little Boy, Norman Rockwell. 1952 Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, May 24 1952. ©1952 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN.

Rockwell Illustrates “The Facts of Life,”  published cover

Rockwell Illustrates “The Facts of Life,” published cover

July 14, 1951 / 1950s

The Facts of Life, Norman Rockwell. 1951 Oil on canvas, 28 x 26″ Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, July 14, 1951. ©1951 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN. Collection of the Spencer Museum of Art

48 Nations – Peace Treaty

48 Nations – Peace Treaty

September 8, 1951 / 1950s

Yoshida and members of the Japanese delegation sign the Treaty

Photo: Public Domain

 

Rockwell’s Illustration “Saying Grace,” published cover

Rockwell’s Illustration “Saying Grace,” published cover

November 24, 1951 / 1950s

Saying Grace, Norman Rockwell. 1951. Oil on canvas Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, November 24, 1951 The George Lucas Collection ©1951 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

DNA

1952 / 1950s

X-ray crystallographer Rosalind Franklin, working at King’s College in London, photographs DNA

NATO flag

NATO flag

April 7, 1952 / 1950s

After signing North Atlantic Treaty Organization in 1949 the official flag was raised

Photo: Public Domain

Rockwell’s Illustration “Day in the Life of a Girl,” published cover

Rockwell’s Illustration “Day in the Life of a Girl,” published cover

August 30, 1952 / 1950s

Day in the Life of a Little Girl, Norman Rockwell. 1952 Oil on canvas, 45″ x 42” Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, August 30, 1952 From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum ©1952 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

Rockwell’s Illustration “Eisenhower Portraits,” published

Rockwell’s Illustration “Eisenhower Portraits,” published

October 11, 1952 / 1950s

Portrait of Dwight D. Eisenhower, Norman Rockwell. 1952. Oil on canvas. Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, Oct 11 1952. ©1952 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN. Collection of the Norman Rockwell Museum

President-Elect Dwight D. Eisenhower

President-Elect Dwight D. Eisenhower

November 4, 1952 12:00 am / 1950s

A landslide victory for Eisenhower

Photo: Public Domain

“The Crucible”

1953 / 1950s

Arthur Miller’s play,The Crucible, uses the Salem witch trials as a metaphor for the contemporary paranoia of McCarthyism

Rockwell begins a series of ads for Kellogg’s corn flakes

Rockwell begins a series of ads for Kellogg’s corn flakes

1953 / 1950s
Rockwell’s Illustration “Girl with Black Eye (The Shiner),” published cover

Rockwell’s Illustration “Girl with Black Eye (The Shiner),” published cover

May 23, 1953 / 1950s

Girl with Black Eye, Norman Rockwell. 1953. Oil on canvas, 34 x 30″ Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, May 23, 1953 Wadsworth Atheneum, Hartford, Connecticut, Gift of Kenneth Stuart. ©1953 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

The Rockwells move to Stockbridge in December

1953 / 1950s
Rockwell’s Illustration “Girl at Mirror,” published cover

Rockwell’s Illustration “Girl at Mirror,” published cover

March 6, 1954 / 1950s

Girl at Mirror, Norman Rockwell. 1954 Oil on canvas, 31 ½” x 29 ½” Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, March 6, 1954 From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum ©1954 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

Elvis Presley begins his music career

1954 / 1950s
Ellis Island shuts its doors

Ellis Island shuts its doors

1954 / 1950s

From 1892 – 1954,12 million immigrants made their way to America through the open doors of New York’s immigration port

Photo: Public Domain

Photo Credits: Arriving at Ellis, circa 1908 (Photo by Lewis Hine)

Rockwell’s Illustration “Breaking Home Ties,” published cover

Rockwell’s Illustration “Breaking Home Ties,” published cover

September 24, 1954 / 1950s

Breaking Home Ties, Norman Rockwell. 1954 Oil on canvas, 49 x 49” Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, September 25, 1954. Owner unknown ©1954 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

Minimum wage – raised to $1.00 / hour

1955 / 1950s
Rockwell’s Illustration “Art Critic,” published cover

Rockwell’s Illustration “Art Critic,” published cover

April 16, 1955 / 1950s

Art Critic, Norman Rockwell. 1955 Oil on canvas, 39 ½ x 36 ¼” Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, April 16, 1955 From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum ©1955 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

Rockwell’s Illustration “Marriage License,” published cover

Rockwell’s Illustration “Marriage License,” published cover

June 11, 1955 / 1950s

The Marriage License, Norman Rockwell. 1955. Oil on canvas, 45 ½” x 42 ½” Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, June 11, 1955 From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum ©1955 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

The world’s first nuclear-powered submarine

The world’s first nuclear-powered submarine

1955 / 1950s

USS Nautilus was created for and by the United States Navy

(Launching Nautilus)

Photo: Public Domain

Rockwell’s Illustration “The Mermaid,” published cover

Rockwell’s Illustration “The Mermaid,” published cover

August 20, 1955 / 1950s

Mermaid, Norman Rockwell. 1955. Oil on canvas, Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, August 20 1955. ©1955 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN. Private Collection.

Rockwell creates ads for Pan American after traveling around the world

Rockwell creates ads for Pan American after traveling around the world

1956 / 1950s
Rockwell’s Illustration “Happy Birthday, Miss Jones!” published cover

Rockwell’s Illustration “Happy Birthday, Miss Jones!” published cover

March 17, 1956 / 1950s

Happy Birthday Miss Jones, Norman Rockwell. 1956 Oil on canvas Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, March 17, 1956 Private collection. ©1956 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

IBM releases the first computer with a hard drive

IBM releases the first computer with a hard drive

1956 / 1950s

This 16 square foot hard drive, created by IBM associate, Reynold Johnson and his team had a writeable platter and weighed about one ton

Photo: Creative Commons

Federal-Aid Highway Act

June 29, 1956 / 1950s

41,000 miles of interstate highway construction

Rockwell’s Illustration “The Discovery,” published cover

Rockwell’s Illustration “The Discovery,” published cover

December 29, 1956 / 1950s

The Discovery, Norman Rockwell. 1956. Oil on canvas, 35 ¼ x 32 ½” Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, December 29, 1956 From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum ©1956 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

US Chamber of Commerce recognizes Rockwell as a “great living American”

1957 / 1950s
Rockwell’s Illustration “After the Prom,” published cover

Rockwell’s Illustration “After the Prom,” published cover

May 25, 1957 / 1950s

After the Prom, Norman Rockwell. 1957 Oil on canvas, 31 1/8 x 29 1/8″ Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, May 25, 1957 Private collection

The first space satellite “Sputnik”

The first space satellite “Sputnik”

1957 / 1950s

The Soviet Union launched the world’s first man-made satellite

Photo: Courtesy of The Harry S. Truman Library and Museum

Rockwell’s Illustration “Before the Shot,” published cover

Rockwell’s Illustration “Before the Shot,” published cover

March 15, 1958 / 1950s

Before the Shot, Norman Rockwell, 1958 Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, March 15, 1958 Norman Rockwell Museum Digital Collections ©1958 SEPS: Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

NASA is established

NASA is established

August 8, 1958 / 1950s

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) was created in response to the Soviet Union’s satellite, Sputnik

President Eisenhower’s nomination to appoint, T. Keith Glennan, of Ohio to be Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

Photo: Creative Commons

Angelo Roncalli is elected pope and takes the name John XXIII

1958 / 1950s

The Microchip is invented

1958 / 1950s
Rockwell’s Illustration “The Runaway,” published cover

Rockwell’s Illustration “The Runaway,” published cover

September 20, 1958 / 1950s

The Runaway, Norman Rockwell. 1958. Oil on canvas, 35 3/4″ x 33 1/2′” Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, September 20, 1958 From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum ©1958 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

Rockwell appears CBS TV show

February 6, 1959 / 1950s

Edward R. Murrow’s Person to Person

Rockwell becomes the first inductee to the Society of Illustrators Hall of Fame

1959 / 1950s
50 STATES

50 STATES

March 4, 1959 12:00 am / 1950s

Alaska becomes the 49th State and Hawaii becomes the 50th

Photo: Public Domain

NASA introduces America’s first astronauts to the world

1959 / 1950s
Rockwell’s “Triple Self-Portrait,” published cover

Rockwell’s “Triple Self-Portrait,” published cover

February 13, 1960 / 1960s

Triple Self-Portrait, Norman Rockwell. 1960. Oil on canvas, 44 ½ x 34 ¾” Cover lllustration for The Saturday Evening Post, February 13, 1960 From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum ©1960 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

Rockwell’s “Portrait of Mary Barstow Rockwell”

Rockwell’s “Portrait of Mary Barstow Rockwell”

1960 / 1960s

Portrait of Mary Barstow Rockwell, Norman Rockwell. 1951
Charcoal on paper, Portrait; 1950, C.  © Norman Rockwell Family Agency

Rockwell’s autobiography is published

1960 / 1960s

My Adventures as an Illustrator – Norman Rockwell

Rockwell’s “Portrait of John F. Kennedy,” published cover

Rockwell’s “Portrait of John F. Kennedy,” published cover

October 29, 1960 / 1960s

Portrait of John F. Kennedy, Norman Rockwell. 1960. Oil on canvas, 16” x 12” Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, November 5, 1960 From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum ©1960 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

John F. Kennedy is elected president

John F. Kennedy is elected president

November 8, 1960 / 1960s

One of the closest elections in U.S. history. 

Photo: Courtesy of John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum

Rockwell’s “The Golden Rule,” published cover

Rockwell’s “The Golden Rule,” published cover

April 1, 1961 / 1960s

Golden Rule, Norman Rockwell.  1961 Oil on canvas, 44 ½” x 39 ½” Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, April 1, 1961 From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum ©1961 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

The first man in space – Yuri Gagarin

The first man in space – Yuri Gagarin

April 12, 1961 / 1960s

Photo: Courtesy of Archive image from of the Huntsville Times

John F. Kennedy establishes the Peace Corps

1961 / 1960s

Construction of the Berlin Wall begins

1961 / 1960s
Rockwell’s Illustration “The Connoisseur,” published cover

Rockwell’s Illustration “The Connoisseur,” published cover

January 13, 1962 / 1960s

The Connoisseur, Norman Rockwell. 1961. Oil on canvas, 37 3/4 x 31 ½” inches Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, January 13, 1962 Private Collection ©1962 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

Rockwell’s Illustration “Lincoln for the Defense,” published

Rockwell’s Illustration “Lincoln for the Defense,” published

February 10, 1962 / 1960s

Lincoln for the Defense (Abe Lincoln), Norman Rockwell. 1962. Oil on canvas, 49 ¾ x 17 ½” Story illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, February 10, 1962 From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum ©1962 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Publishing, Indianapolis, IN

Women of the Riveters iconic era – building America

Women of the Riveters iconic era – building America

1962 / 1960s

Women working on a plane in the Army Air Corps

Photo: Creative Commons

Norman Rockwell creates mural for Berkshire Life Insurance Company

Rockwell’s “Pittsfield Main Street”

Rockwell’s “Pittsfield Main Street”

1963 / 1960s

Pittsfield Main Street, Norman Rockwell. 1963. Mural 6 x 17.5′. Mural for Berkshire Life Insurance Company; 1963.

Oral Polio Vaccine

Oral Polio Vaccine

1963 / 1960s

The nation is encouraged to take the Polio Vaccine, with national marketing campaign supporting it

Photo: Public Domain

Civil Rights March

Civil Rights March

August 8, 1963 / 1960s

A defining moment in the Civil Rights movement – a quarter of a million Americans gather in Washington D.C.

Civil Rights March – Photograph of a young woman with a banner

– Washington, D.C.

Photo: Creative Commons

“I have a dream”

August 28, 1963 / 1960s

Martin Luther King, Jr. gives famous “I have a dream” speech

Washington D.C. – on the steps at the Lincoln Memorial in

Rockwell’s career transitions

1963 / 1960s

Norman Rockwell leaves the Saturday Evening Post & moves to Look magazine, painting about civil rights, social hardship, and the exploration of space.

President John F. Kennedy is assassinated

President John F. Kennedy is assassinated

November 22, 1963 / 1960s

Just 3 years into his presidency, JFK was assassinated, as he rode in a motorcade – Dallas, Texas.

Photo: Public Domain

Photo Credit: Abbie Rowe. White House Photographs. John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston

Rockwells travel to Russia

Rockwells travel to Russia

December 20, 1963 / 1960s
“The Problem We All Live With,” Rockwell’s story illustration

“The Problem We All Live With,” Rockwell’s story illustration

January 14, 1964 / 1960s

The Problem We All Live With, Norman Rockwell. 1963 Oil on canvas, 36 x 58” Story illustration for Look, January 14, 1964 From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum Licensed by Norman Rockwell Licensing Company, Niles, IL

Rockwell illustrates “Poor Richard’s Almanacks”

1964 / 1960s

Rockwell Illustrates a Lincoln Savings ad

1964 / 1960s

Lincoln the Railsplitter

The Civil Rights Act of 1964 is signed into law

The Civil Rights Act of 1964 is signed into law

1964 / 1960s

President Johnson signs the Civil Rights Act of 1964 with Martin Luther King, Jr. amongst the many guest present.

Photo: Public Domain

“Portrait of Lyndon B. Johnson”

“Portrait of Lyndon B. Johnson”

October 20, 1964 / 1960s

Portrait of Lyndon B. Johnson, Norman Rockwell. 1964. Oil on canvas, 27” x 22” Unpublished. From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum. Licensed by Norman Rockwell Licensing Company, Niles, IL

“Bloody Sunday”

“Bloody Sunday”

March 7, 1965 12:00 am / 1960s

Alabama police attack marchers – demonstration for their right to vote

Photo: Public Domain

“Murder in Mississippi (Southern Justice)”

“Murder in Mississippi (Southern Justice)”

June 29, 1965 / 1960s

Murder in Mississippi (study), Norman Rockwell. 1965 Oil on board, 15 x 12 ¾” Story illustration for Look, June 29, 1965 From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum Licensed by Norman Rockwell Licensing Company, Niles, IL

Voting Rights Act

Voting Rights Act

August 6, 1965 / 1960s

African Americans are guaranteed the right to vote

Photo: Public Domain

Photo Credit: President Lyndon B. Johnson, Martin Luther King, Jr., and Rosa Parks

Rockwell creates a poster and series of portraits for the movie “Stagecoach”

Rockwell creates a poster and series of portraits for the movie “Stagecoach”

1966 / 1960s

Stagecoach Portraits, Norman Rockwell. 1965 Oil on canvas, 20 x 16″ Norman Rockwell Art Collection Trust

NYC Subway Strike paralyzes the City

NYC Subway Strike paralyzes the City

1966 / 1960s

Construction work begins on the twin towers for the World Trade Center

The World Trade Center, was built on “Radio Row” in Manhattan, New York – designed by US architect Minoru Yamasaki

Photo: Public Domain

“The Peace Corps”

“The Peace Corps”

June 14, 1966 / 1960s

The Peace Corps (J.F.K.’s Bold Legacy), Norman Rockwell. 1966. Oil on canvas, 45 ½ x 36 ½” Story illustration for Look, June 14, 1966 From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum. ©Norman Rockwell Family Agency

“The Saturday People”

“The Saturday People”

1966 / 1960s

The Saturday People, Norman Rockwell. 1966. Oil on canvas, 24 ½” x 41 ½” Story illustration for McCall’s, October 1966. From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum. Norman Rockwell Paintings Trust at Old Corner House. ©Norman Rockwell Family Agency. All rights reserved.

“United States Space Ship on the Moon”

January 10, 1967 / 1960s

Rockwell’s Illustration in Look

Rockwell publishes a childrens’ book

1967 / 1960s

Willie Was Different

Israel and Egypt – the “Six-Day War”

Israel and Egypt – the “Six-Day War”

1967 / 1960s

A pre-emptive air strike by Israel destroys almost all Egypt’s aircraft and launches the Six-Day War

Photo: Creative Common

“New Kids in the Neighborhood”

“New Kids in the Neighborhood”

May 16, 1967 / 1960s

New Kids in the Neighborhood, Norman Rockwell. 1967 Oil on canvas, 36 ½” x 57 ½” Story illustration for Look, May 16, 1967 From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum. © Norman Rockwell Family Agency

Rockwell’s “Stockbridge Main Street”

Rockwell’s “Stockbridge Main Street”

1967 / 1960s

Stockbridge Mainstreet at Christmas (Home for Christmas), Norman Rockwell. 1967. Oil on canvas, 26 ½ x 95 ½” Story illustration for  “Home for Christmas” McCall’s, December 1967. From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum. © Norman Rockwell Family Agency

“Portrait of Richard Nixon”

“Portrait of Richard Nixon”

March 5, 1968 / 1960s

Portrait of Richard M. Nixon, Norman Rockwell. 1968. Oil on canvas, 22” x 14 1/8” Story illustration for Look, March 5, 1968 From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum. © Norman Rockwell Family Agency

Assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.

Assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.

April 9, 1968 / 1960s

Garment workers huddled together listening to Dr. King’s funeral service

Photo: Creative Commons

“Portrait of Ronald Reagan”

“Portrait of Ronald Reagan”

July 23, 1968 / 1960s

What About Ronald Reagan?, Norman Rockwell. 1968 Oil on canvas board, 26.75 x 21.75″  Story illustration for Look; 23 July 1968. ©Norman Rockwell Family Agency

Rockwell’s first solo exhibit is held in the Bernard Danenberg Gallery

1968 / 1960s
Richard Nixon becomes president

Richard Nixon becomes president

January 20, 1969 / 1960s

37th President of the United States – Richard M. Nixon

Photo: Public Domain

 

Old Corner House opens to public featuring 35 paintings loaded by Rockwell

Old Corner House opens to public featuring 35 paintings loaded by Rockwell

May 31, 1969 / 1960s

© Norman Rockwell Family Agency

“Apollo & Beyond (Apollo II Space Team)”

“Apollo & Beyond (Apollo II Space Team)”

July 15, 1969 / 1960s

Apollo and Beyond, Norman Rockwell. 1969 Oil on canvas on panel, 28.5 x 66″  Story illustration for Look, 15 July 1969. © Norman Rockwell Family Agency

Man on the moon

Man on the moon

July 21, 1969 / 1960s

Neil Armstrong – the first person to walk on the moon

Photo: Public Domain

Woodstock

August 15, 1969 / 1960s

“Three days of peace and music” – thousands gather in the Catskill Mountains for the Woodstock Festival

“The Final Impossibility: Man’s Tracks on the Moon”

“The Final Impossibility: Man’s Tracks on the Moon”

December 30, 1969 / 1960s

The Final Impossibility: Man’s Tracks on the Moon (Two Men on the Moon) Norman Rockwell. 1969. Story illustration for Look, December 30, 1969. © Norman Rockwell Family Agency

The First Earth Day

The First Earth Day

April 22, 1970 / 1970s

The Iroquois Native Americans understand the symbiotic relationship between man and the earth and how to preserve its integrity.

Photo: Courtesy of Library of Congress

Photo Credit: “Iroquois Indians,” ca. 1914

Kent State University

May 4, 1970 / 1970s

Four students are killed by National Guards during an anti-Vietnam War demonstration at Kent State University in Ohio

“Uneasy Christmas in the Birthplace of Peace”

“Uneasy Christmas in the Birthplace of Peace”

December 26, 1970 / 1970s

Christmas Eve in Bethlehem, Norman Rockwell. 1970. Oil on canvas, 33” x 51” Story illustration for Look, December 29, 1970. From the permanent collection of Norman Rockwell Museum. © Norman Rockwell Family Agency

“Gee, Thanks Brooks!”

“Gee, Thanks Brooks!”

1971 / 1970s

Gee, Thanks Brooks!, Norman Rockwell. 1971. Oil on canvas, 37 x 27″ Advertisement for ATO, Inc. 1971. Private Collection

Voting Age Lowered to 18 in the United States and United Kingdom

1971 / 1970s
“Springtime in Stockbridge”

“Springtime in Stockbridge”

June 1, 1971 / 1970s

Springtime in Stockbridge, Norman Rockwell. 1971 Oil on canvas, 32” x 68” Story illustration for Look, June 1, 1971 Norman Rockwell Museum Collections. © Norman Rockwell Family Agency

Walt Disney World Resort opens in Florida

Walt Disney World Resort opens in Florida

October 1, 1971 / 1970s

Photo: Creative Common

Norman Rockwell: a 60-Year Retrospective opens at the Brooklyn Museum

March 22, 1972 / 1970s
Electronic Digital Watches

Electronic Digital Watches

1972 / 1970s

The Hamilton Pulsar P1 – The first electronic digital watch to reach the market for retail at $2,100

Photo: Creative Commons

Photo Credit: A Pulsar LED watch (1976)

Watergate Scandal

June 17, 1972 / 1970s

Five burglars are arrested breaking into the Democratic National Committee HQ at the Watergate office building in Washington

71-day siege – AIM

71-day siege – AIM

February 27, 1973 / 1970s

Activists of the American Indian Movement (AIM) survive a ten-week siege at Wounded Knee, winning international attention

  • – Wounded Knee, South Dakota
  • Photo: Public Domain
“From Concord to Tranquility”

“From Concord to Tranquility”

1973 / 1970s

From Concord to Tranquility, Norman Rockwell. 1971. Oil on canvas, Boy Scouts of America, 1973. Collection of the National Scouting Museum of the Boy Scouts of America, Inc.

Rockwell leaves his personal collection of art in trust to the Norman Rockwell Museum

1973 / 1970s
Nixon is pardoned

Nixon is pardoned

September 8, 1973 / 1970s

President Ford pardons ex-president Nixon for his part in the Watergate affair, thus removing the possibility of criminal charges

Photo: Public Domain

The Terracotta Army

The Terracotta Army

1974 / 1970s

More than 7000 life-size terracotta solders are unearthed at Xi’an, placed to guard the tomb of the third century BC Chinese emperor Shi Huangdi

Photo: Creative Commons

Rockwell paints portraits of numerous celebrities

Rockwell paints portraits of numerous celebrities

1974 / 1970s

Portraits include John Wayne, Frank Sinatra, & Arnold Palmer

Microsoft

Microsoft

April 4, 1975 / 1970s

Bill Gates and Paul Allen create the company Microsoft

Photo: Public Domain

Vietnam War – ENDS

Vietnam War – ENDS

1975 / 1970s

American and Vietnamese civilians in U.S. helicopter evacuations, termed “Operation Frequent Wind” 

Photo: Public Domain

Rockwell places his studio in trust to Norman Rockwell Museum

1976 / 1970s
“Soweto Uprising”

“Soweto Uprising”

1976 / 1970s

Hundreds of deaths and casualties result from police firing on a demonstration by schoolchildren in the black township of Soweto

Photo: Fair Use

(photo by Sam Nzima became an icon of the Soweto uprising)

Rockwell’s last cover

Rockwell’s last cover

1976 / 1970s

Liberty Bell (Celebration), Norman Rockwell, 1976. Oil on canvas, 45″ x 33″. Cover illustration for American Artist, July 1976. Collection of Billboard Publications.

Rockwell awarded Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Ford

Rockwell awarded Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Ford

1977 / 1970s
“Star Wars”

“Star Wars”

1977 / 1970s

George Lucas writes and directs a science fantasy, Star Wars, launching a narrative that will be expanded into further films

Photo: Public Domain

President Carter signs the ERA

President Carter signs the ERA

October 20, 1978 / 1970s

The Extension of Equal Rights Amendment – equal rights for all citizens, regardless of sex

Photo: Creative Common

Photo Credit: Jimmy Carter Signing Extension of Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) Ratification

Norman Rockwell dies at home

November 3, 1978 / 1970s

Norman Rockwell’s funeral

November 11, 1978 / 1970s

Funeral held at St. Paul’s Church, and Norman is buried in Stockbridge, Massachusetts Cemetery

First female Prime Minister

First female Prime Minister

1979 / 1970s

The Conservative party wins the general election and Margaret Thatcher becomes Britain’s first female prime minister

Photo: Creative Commons

China’s Population Plan

China’s Population Plan

1979 / 1970s

China institutes the one child per family rule

Photo: Creative Common

Photo Credit: Mother and son in Jiayuguan, China

Microsoft & IBM

1980 / 1980s

Microsoft wins the contract to provide the operating system of the IBM personal computer

The first Compact Disc (CD)

The first Compact Disc (CD)

1980 / 1980s

James T. Russell presented the first compact disk (CD) to Sony

Iraq-Iran, War

Iraq-Iran, War

September 22, 1980 / 1980s

War breaks out between Iraq and Iran

Photo: Creative Commons

Sandra Day O’Connor is Sworn in as Supreme Court Justice

Sandra Day O’Connor is Sworn in as Supreme Court Justice

September 25, 1981 / 1980s

Photo: Creative Commons

Photo Credit: Sandra Day O’Connor, Justice Warren Burger, Her Husband John O’Connor Looks On,

The Saudi fundamentalis

1982 / 1980s

Osama bin Laden joins the mujaheddin in their fight against the Soviet occupiers of Afghanistan

Israeli invasion of Lebanon

Israeli invasion of Lebanon

1982 / 1980s

Photo: Creative Common

Bob Hawke is Australia’s prime minister after a Labor victory in the election

Bob Hawke is Australia’s prime minister after a Labor victory in the election

1983 / 1980s

Photo: Creative Common

Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI)

Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI)

1983 / 1980s

President Reagan proposes a Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI) against nuclear attack

Photo: Public Domain

The CIA covertly arranges for mines to be laid in Nicaragua’s harbours

1984 / 1980s
President Reagan

President Reagan

November 6, 1984 / 1980s

President Ronald Reagan is elected for a second presidential term, defeating the Democrat Walter Mondale

Photo: Public Domain

Mikhail Gorbachev

Mikhail Gorbachev

1985 / 1980s

New Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev brings glasnost (‘openness’) and perestroika (‘reform’) to the USSR

Photo: Creative Commons

Live Aid Concert

Live Aid Concert

July 13, 1985 / 1980s

Live Aid, an all-day concert for famine relief in Africa, is held simultaneously in London and Philadelphia

Photo: Creative Commons

Challenger explosion

Challenger explosion

January 28, 1986 / 1980s

The US Space shuttle Challenger explodes with seven on board less than two minutes after lift-off

Photo: Public Domain

Photo Credit: crew: (front row) Michael J. Smith, Dick Scobee, Ronald McNair; (back row) Ellison Onizuka, Christa McAuliffe, Gregory Jarvis, Judith Resnik

Yoweri Museveni

1986 / 1980s

The guerrilla leader Yoweri Museveni takes Kampala and becomes president of Uganda

Iran-Contra affair

Iran-Contra affair

1987 / 1980s

The US Congress begins an investigation of the Iran-Contra affair, eventually clearing President Reagan of direct involvement

Photo: Public Domain

Photo Credits: President Ronald Reagan, Caspar Weinberger, George Shultz, Ed Meese, and Don Regan in the Oval Office

Angola and South African

1988 / 1980s

A cease-fire withdraws Cuban troops from Angola and South African forces from Angola and Namibia

British physicist Stephen Hawking

British physicist Stephen Hawking

1988 / 1980s

Explains the cosmos for the general reader in A Brief History of Time: from the Big Bang to Black Holes

Photo: Creative Common

George Herbert Walker Bush

George Herbert Walker Bush

January 20, 1989 / 1980s

George Herbert Walker Bush becomes President 

(January 20, 1989 – January 20, 1993)

Photo: Public Domain

The Berlin Wall is coming down

The Berlin Wall is coming down

1989 / 1980s

Deconstruction of the Berlin Wall from 1990 – 1992

It will will no longer divide 

Photo: Creative Common

Photo Credit: image taken in 1986 by Thierry Noir at Bethaniendamm in Berlin-Kreuzberg.

President George H. W. Bush Signs the ADA

President George H. W. Bush Signs the ADA

July 26, 1990 / 1990s

The American’s with Disabilities Act bars discrimination against Americans with disabilities – this enables people with disabilities access to jobs, transportation, and public places, without restrictions due to disability

Photo: Creative Common

Photo Credit: President George Bush, Evan Kemp, Chairman, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Justin Dart, Chairman, President’s Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities, Rev. Harold Wilke and Swift Parrino, Chairperson, National Council on Disability

The Gulf War

The Gulf War

1991 / 1990s

The Gulf War begins when Iraq fails to meet the UN deadline for withdrawal from Kuwait

Photo: Public Domain

Algeria is plunged into a brutal civil war between a military junta and Muslim terrorists

1992 / 1990s
Norman Rockwell Museum opens new building in Stockbridge

Norman Rockwell Museum opens new building in Stockbridge

January 1, 1993 / 1990s
President Bill Clinton

President Bill Clinton

January 20, 1993 / 1990s

Bill Clinton – 43rd President

(January 20, 1993 – January 20, 2001)

Photo: Public Domain

Rockwell’s Studio moved to new Museum grounds in Stockbridge

Rockwell’s Studio moved to new Museum grounds in Stockbridge

March 29, 1993 / 1990s
Big storage made smaller

Big storage made smaller

1994 / 1990s

Compact Flash made flash data storage possible

Photo: Creative Common

The DVD

The DVD

1995 / 1990s

The DVD became the next generation of disk storage

Photo: Public Domain

Oklahoma City bombing

Oklahoma City bombing

1996 / 1990s

A massive bomb destroys federal buildings in Oklahoma City, killing 168 people

Photo: Public Domain

“I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings”

“I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings”

June 4, 1997 / 1990s

Maya Angelou is a celebrated and inspirational author and poet

Performing in New Orleans at the Essence Music Festival

Photo: Courtesy of the History Channel

Good Friday Agreement

Good Friday Agreement

1998 / 1990s

A proposed referendum on northern Irish issues is accepted by all the relevant political parties in what becomes known as the “Good Friday Agreement”

Photo: Creative Common

Photo Credit: Parliament Buildings in Belfast, seat of the Northern Ireland Assembly

The USB stick plugged into computers for portable storage

The USB stick plugged into computers for portable storage

1999 / 1990s
Norman Rockwell: Pictures for the American People launches at the High Museum of Art

Norman Rockwell: Pictures for the American People launches at the High Museum of Art

November 6, 1999 / 1990s
George W. Bush – elected President

George W. Bush – elected President

January 20, 2001 / 2000s

President George W. Bush

(January 20, 2001 – January 20, 2009)

Photo: Public Domain

9 / 11

9 / 11

September 9, 2001 / 2000s

September 11 or 9/11- a day the nation will never forget

Photo: Creative Common

The new Blu-Ray allowed for more data storage

2003 / 2000s
American Chronicles: The Art of Norman Rockwell launches at Akron Art Museum

American Chronicles: The Art of Norman Rockwell launches at Akron Art Museum

November 10, 2007 / 2000s
Barack Obama becomes presiden

Barack Obama becomes presiden

January 20, 2009 / 2000s

44th President of the United States – President Obama 

(January 20, 2009 – January 20, 2017)

Photo: Public Domain

Norman Rockwell: Behind the Camera launches at Norman Rockwell Museum

Norman Rockwell: Behind the Camera launches at Norman Rockwell Museum

November 7, 2009 / 2000s

Rockwell’s “Problem We All Live with,” installed in Oval Office

July 25, 2011 / 2000s

During Obama Presidency, President Barack Obama, Ruby Bridges, and representatives of the Norman Rockwell Museum view Rockwell’s The Problem We All Live With. (It is hanging in a West Wing hallway near the Oval Office)

Rockwell United Nations Exhibition

June 20, 2015 / 2000s
Donald Trump assumes office

Donald Trump assumes office

January 20, 2017 / 2000s

Donald Trump is elected President
(January 20, 2017 – Current)

Photo: Public Domain

Women’s March

Women’s March

January 21, 2017 / 2000s

A protest that reached around the world

A protest for: human rights, women’s rights, immigration reform, healthcare reform, reproductive rights, LGBTQ rights, racial equality, freedom of religion, and workers’ rights

Photo: Creative Common

The Cloud

2017 / 2000s

The rise of Cloud Storage systems, which saves data on third-party hard drives.

March for Our Lives

March for Our Lives

March 24, 2018 / 2000s

A student-led demonstration for stronger gun control laws

Photo: Public Domain

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