Historic Handshake between George Meany (1894-1980), President of the American Federation of Labor, and Walter Philip Reuther (1907-1970), CIO President on a Union Merger 1955

Curator: This photograph, captured by the Associated Press, is titled "Historic Handshake between George Meany and Walter Reuther on a Union Merger." Editor: It's a compelling image! The monochrome palette emphasizes the gravity of the moment. There is a feeling of cautious optimism in their faces. Curator: Indeed. It freezes a crucial moment of union consolidation in the mid-20th century. Reuther, from the CIO, is visibly younger than Meany, of the AFL. This alliance changed labor's public perception and political strength. Editor: The handshake itself is so symbolic. It is an archetype of agreement and unity, but here, it represents a shift in power and the future of labor movements. Curator: I agree. The photograph's power comes from distilling that complex historical shift into a simple, readable, culturally significant gesture. Editor: A potent reminder of how simple gestures carry entire narratives.