" Banish the self debasing principles, and scorn the disingenuity of readers. Humility has depressed many a genius into a hermit" : commencement essay, 1793

Two-page handwritten essay composed for the July 17, 1793 Harvard University Commencement by an unattributed author. The title is a quote from William Shenstone's essay "On Allowing Merit in Others." The essay begins, "Notwithstanding Philosophers have ever considered the human mind as a simple being..."

One of many homeless women in New York

General note: Title and date provided by Bettye Lane.

One of many bag women who beg for money in mid-town

General note: Title and date provided by Bettye Lane.

Woman begs in front of one of many benevolent associations

General note: Title and date provided by Bettye Lane.

Political writer Doug Ireland received many stitches after he was beaten up by an unknown assailant while handing out anti-"Cruising" film leaflets

General note: Title and date provided by Bettye Lane.