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Woman crossing road in the dark in white coat, Sept 1939
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Woman crossing road in the dark in white coat, Sept 1939
Female pedestrian crossing road in front of a car, using her white coat and a newspaper to be seen in the dark, as well as carrying a gas mask. A demonstration of public reactions to the blackout in London following the outbreak of the second World War in September 1939.
September 1939
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Media ID 23266890
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Blackout Jul19 Pedestrian Precaution
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September 1939: A Woman's Determined Stride into the Unknown Amidst the ominous backdrop of the Second World War's early days, this evocative image captures the indomitable spirit of a woman navigating the darkened streets of London. The date is September 1939, and the city has been plunged into darkness as part of the blackout measures designed to protect against air raids. The woman, bundled up in a white coat, confidently steps into the road, her face illuminated by the dim light of a nearby streetlamp. She clutches a newspaper in one hand, using it as a makeshift signal for oncoming traffic. In the other hand, she carries a gas mask, a stark reminder of the imminent threat looming over the city. This image encapsulates the precautions taken by the public in response to the blackout. The use of white coats and newspapers to increase visibility became a common sight on London's streets, as people adapted to the new reality of wartime life. The woman's determined stride and unwavering focus on reaching the other side of the road serve as a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of the British people during this tumultuous time. As the shadows lengthened and the city grew darker, Londoners found creative ways to cope with the challenges of daily life under the blackout. This photograph offers a poignant glimpse into the past, reminding us of the courage and adaptability that defined the human spirit during the darkest days of the Second World War.
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