Social Problem Collection

Abandoned baby found by police, New York City, 1890s
Policeman bringing in an abandoned infant found in an alley on a winter night, New York City, 1890s. Hand-colored woodcut reproduction of a 19th-century photograph

Deacon Giless Distillery temperance cartoon, 1830s
" Bringing back the rum, " temperance cartoon showing liquor barrels labeled with forms of death, Salem, Massachusetts. Hand-colored woodcut from an 1830s temperance pamphlet

Poor people warm themselves over a sidewalk steam vent in Manhattan, 1870s
NWI4759752 Poor people warm themselves over a sidewalk steam vent in Manhattan, 1870s.; (add.info.: Poor people warm themselves over a sidewalk steam vent in Manhattan)

The Quiet Street, a Sketch from a Study Window, 1856. Satirical print showing a noisy London street: a brassband
FLO4995451 The Quiet Street, a Sketch from a Study Window, 1856. Satirical print showing a noisy London street: a brassband, Masaniello's pipe organ, a hurdy gurdy, blackface musicians

Video makers Ken Glenwright (front) with (from the left) social worker Neil Gibson, Raymond Armstrong, social worker Penny Pool and Alison Phillips

Homeless boys sleeping in an alley, 1890s
Homeless street boys sleeping in an alley in New York City, 1890s. Hand-colored woodcut reproduction of a 19th-century photograph

Childrens Aid Society dining-hall, 1800s
Poor children eating dinner at the Childrens Aid Societys summer resort, New York, 1800s. Hand-colored woodcut of a 19th-century illustration

Irish immigrant shantytown in New York City
Irish immigrant family on a summer evening in the shantytown at the Five Points, New York City, 1870s. Hand-colored woodcut of a 19th-century illustration

GEUR2A-00020
Russian serfs greeting a noble, 1800s. Hand-colored woodcut of a 19th-century illustration

Jews assaulted in Kiev, 1880s
Assault on Jews within sight of the Russian military in Kiev, 1880s. Hand-colored woodcut of a 19th-century illustration

Charity kitchen for the poor in Philadelphia, 1870s
Beggars club in the Northern Liberties section of Philadelphia, 1870s. Hand-colored woodcut of a 19th-century illustration

Homeless person in Washington DC
Homeless person sleeping in temporary homemade tent structure on I St NW near McPherson Square, Washington DC

Male rage, conceptual image. Computer artwork of a mans head shouting, representing feelings of anger and aggression in men

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"Unveiling the Dark Pages of History: Social Problems that Haunted America" In the 1800s and 1890s, New York City witnessed a series of heart-wrenching social problems that left an indelible mark on its history. The discovery of an abandoned baby by the police in the bustling streets of New York City during the 1890s sent shockwaves through society, exposing a hidden crisis. Meanwhile, in the early 1830s, Deacon Giless Distillery's temperance cartoon shed light on another pressing issue – alcoholism. This poignant artwork aimed to raise awareness about excessive drinking and its detrimental effects on individuals and families. Fast forward to more recent times, video makers Ken Glenwright and social worker Neil Gibson joined forces to bring attention to contemporary social issues. Their collaboration sought to bridge gaps between communities and inspire change through their thought-provoking content. However, not all stories had such hopeful undertones. Homeless boys seeking refuge in alleyways during the late 1800s depicted a grim reality faced by many vulnerable children at that time. Thankfully, organizations like Children's Aid Society stepped up with initiatives such as dining halls in the 1800s to provide nourishment for those most in need. The struggles were not limited to one city alone; Irish immigrant shantytowns sprouted across New York City as newcomers fought against poverty and discrimination while striving for a better life. Similarly, Jews faced persecution in Kiev during the tumultuous years of the 1880s. Yet amidst these challenges arose beacons of hope – charity kitchens emerged across Philadelphia during the 1870s as compassionate souls extended helping hands towards impoverished individuals seeking solace from hunger's grip. Sadly though, even today we witness homelessness persisting within our nation's capital - Washington DC - reminding us that there is still much work ahead before every person finds shelter under a roof they can call their own.