When you picture an iconic photograph, but can’t think who took it, chances are it came from Magnum. The now legendary agency was founded in 1947 by photographers transformed by their experience of war. It was the era of the quick-fire 35mm camera; the agency soon saw its advantages, dispersing their talent to the four corners of the globe to see what had survived. Over the years, new members have continued in their founders’ footsteps, documenting a world that remains in discord. In the course of their duties they’ve been threatened with violence, and had to become both expert smugglers and masters of disguise. As it turns 65, Magnum presents a collected history of the civil unrest and upheaval its photographers have witnessed: revolution in all its triumph and tragedy. Above: A protester during clashes near Cairo’s Tahrir Square, by Moises Saman. While in Libya Saman slipped his government minders to cover a protest. When police opened fire, he was sheltered by a family, who gave him apples and Pepsi – “Their small gesture of making a stand,” he says. Picture: ©Moises Saman / Magnum Photos

Credit : ©Moises Saman / Magnum Photos