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Antananarivo, Madagascar, 1870s
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Antananarivo, Madagascar, 1870s
Antananarivo, Madagascar, 1870s. Date: 1870s
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14355867
© Mary Evans Picture Library/Pump Park Photography
EDITORS COMMENTS
Antananarivo, the capital city of Madagascar, as it appeared in the late 1870s is captured in this evocative photograph. The image transports us back in time, offering a glimpse into the daily life of this unique and enigmatic island nation located off the east coast of Africa. The cityscape is dominated by the grand Merina royal palace, with its distinctive red-tiled roofs and imposing stone walls. The palace was the residence of the Merina monarch, the ruling dynasty of Madagascar at the time. Surrounding the palace are a maze of thatched-roof houses, interspersed with open spaces and gardens. The streets are bustling with activity, as people go about their daily chores. The photograph also reveals the diverse population of Antananarivo, with people of various ethnicities and cultures coexisting peacefully. The Malagasy people, who make up the majority of the population, are seen wearing their traditional clothing, including the lamba, a long piece of fabric wrapped around the waist and draped over one shoulder. European influences are also evident, with some people wearing Western-style hats and clothing. The photograph provides a fascinating insight into the rich cultural heritage of Antananarivo and Madagascar during a period of significant change. The island was undergoing a period of political instability, with various European powers vying for influence, but the city remained a vibrant and cosmopolitan center. This photograph is a rare and valuable document of a bygone era, capturing the essence of a city and its people in a time of transformation. It invites us to reflect on the complex history of Madagascar and the enduring resilience of its people.
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