In 1936, Philippe Halsman embarked on a journey throughout the Middle East, accidentally landing himself in Palestine at a key moment in the nations history.

Halsman's photographs capture Palestine under British rule during the early stages of the Arab Revolt (1936-1939). As nationalist tensions and movements gained momentum in the region, violence erupted between the Arab Palestinian community and the increasing influx of Jewish immigrants. Between 1882 and 1923, over a hundred thousand Jewish immigrants from the Russian Empire migrated to Palestine, seeking refuge from anti-Semitism in Europe. At this time, the United States began enforcing stricter immigration laws, which impeded Jewish emigration to America as World War II approached. Consequently, many chose to emigrate to Palestine.

In an effort to quell the revolt, the British initiated a counterinsurgency campaign that resulted in many Palestinians detained or deported. This included the destruction of homes and properties, and the sale of lands through contracts that left Palestinian owners absent and ultimately, displaced.

Through Halsman's lens, a critical moment in history begins to unfold, offering essential visual context and a glimpse into the historical past that persists in the present day.