American soldier and farmer (Robert Capa)

The photograph of the American soldier and the Sicilian farmer taken by Robert Capa is one of the most iconic images of World War II. Robert Capa, a world-renowned war photographer, is known for his ability to capture intense and emotional moments during conflicts.

This particular photograph was taken during the Allied invasion of Sicily, known as Operation Husky, in the summer of 1943. The image shows an American soldier standing next to an elderly Sicilian farmer. The photo is powerful because it captures the contrast and at the same time the connection between the two men: the young soldier, symbol of military strength and external intervention, and the elderly farmer, who represents the local population affected by the war.

The place of photography today

Capa's photography is often praised for its ability to show humanity amid the devastation of war. It represents a moment of solidarity and mutual understanding, despite cultural and linguistic barriers. The photo is also an example of Capa's mastery of telling stories through images of him, capturing moments that speak to hope, resistance and the complexity of the human experience in times of war.