Back to the Past: Take a Look at NYC from the 1940s On

Jerome Liebling was born in Harlem and raised in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn. In the early 1940s, Liebling enlisted to fight in World War II, and upon his return, he had a fantastic opportunity.

Just like countless other servicemen who capitalized on the GI Bill upon returning to American shores, Liebling returned home and studied art.

Later on in the 40s, Liebling joined the Photo League; a group who aimed at showcasing social justice, poverty and other issues through the lens.

For decades Liebling sought to document everyday life in New York City, so we're compiling some of our favorite shots that encompass that pursuit of showcasing everyday Americans.

It's apparent that taking an interest in those less fortunate, at least being aware of them in the face of one of the world's wealthiest cities, is something New Yorkers have maintained for a long time.

And it's a special sort of realization to understand that this ultimately humanist endeavor is continuing long after Liebling's death in 2011.

So check out our selects from his giant body of work.