Allie Gregory #4

 

          World War II began in 1939 when Germany invaded Poland. Two years later, the bombing of Pearl Harbor brought the US into the war, and, over it's course, havoc was wreaked across the globe. Estimates put the number of total casualties around 50 million, and for years the entire world was consumed in the fight. Then it was over. In 1945, the fighting ended, and the excitement that ensued is depicted here. The people in this picture are celebrating. They're elated, utterly relieved. Though the two people had never met before the moment he decided to go up and kiss her, it shows clearly that they're overjoyed. High on victory. Rejoicing.
          Likewise, the world is rejoicing around them. Though it is important to note that many are grieving terrible losses, and entire countries facing the idea of a crushing defeat, those who survived are feeling what we see in this picture. The winners are feeling the joy of success, but I imagine even those who lost can't help but realize that at least they didn't die.

(Important comment: I wrote this before I checked and saw that Annie had just used my picture.)