Today marks the anniversary of the end of the invasion of Czechoslovakia by the Soviets. It was known as, “Prague Spring”. These images are by one of my favorite photographers, Josef Koudelka.
All images ©Josef Koudelka/Magnum.
Invasion 1968 – Prague Spring
I understand why you love this photographer. These images are powerful for the human emotion, drama, strength of the human spirit, determination and more captured. Thank you for sharing these incredible photos.
Thank you Audrey! Koudelka had to smuggle these images out. You should check out his book, “Gypsies”.
Now I appreciate him even more, that he smuggled these profound images out.
I remember my dad telling me that the U.S. government confiscated some of his film from his time serving on the front line during the Korean War. I often wonder what photos he took that his film was taken away. Kind of ironic given he was fighting for freedom.
Thankfully some rolls made it back to the States. They are among my most treasured images.
Startling and we did nothing. Not part of our sphere of influence.
No, there was nothing we could have done but start WWlll. Cold War was still very much in effect.
True but unfortunate for those who expected us to act.