State Historical Society of Iowa

Farmer's Son Playing on a Large Soil Drift in Liberal, Kansas, March 1936

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Courtesy of Library of Congress, Rothstein, Arthur, "A farmer's son playing on one of the large soil drifts which threaten to cover up his home. Liberal, Kansas," March 1936

Description

This photograph by Arthur Rothstein taken in 1936 shows a boy sitting on top of a very large soil drift while holding the family dog. The photo was taken in Liberal, Kansas, which is located in the southwest part of the state.

Source Dependent Questions

  • Look closely at the photo. What are the most significant features? How do these features help you understand the Dust Bowl and its impact?
  • This photo is clearly planned and posed. What is the intent of the photographer? What specific evidence from the photo leads you to make this inference?
  • What clues suggest this boy and his family intend to endure and outlast the Dust Bowl on their family farm?
  • Create your own caption for this photo. Justify your creation using evidence from the photo.

Citation Information

Rothstein, Arthur, "A farmer's son playing on one of the large soil drifts which threaten to cover up his home. Liberal, Kansas," March 1936. Courtesy of Library of Congress Courtesy of Library of Congress