This is an unparalleled look back at one hundred extraordinary years. Selected from the photographic archives of Life and other major collections, these spellbinding images bring alive the people and events that shaped the twentieth century. Included are classic images as well as virtually unknown pictures taken moments before and after their iconic counterparts -- such as the surge of marines surrounding the newly raised flag on Mount Suribachi.

With incredible emotional impact, this book captures the triumphs and disasters, the social progress and setbacks, the heroes and villains that have brought us to the dawn of a new century. Life: Our Century in Pictures is a powerfully emotional evocation of the century we experienced so often through Life's eyes. It is a once-in-a-lifetime commemorative keepsake, distinguished from all its competitors in the depth and range of its compelling images.