Incredible Vintage Moments: Forgotten Gems from the Past

 Ann Margaret, the original redhead bombshell who wore green for St. Patrick's Day in the 1960s

Step back in time and meet the pioneers, visionaries and cultural icons who defined the 20th century. From revolutionary leaders to pioneering artists, these individuals left an indelible mark on history. Get ready to embark on a journey of discovery as we delve deeper into the lives and legacies of these extraordinary personalities. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about the past, prepare to be mesmerized by the stories behind the faces that shape our world.

The beautiful Ginger Ann-Margaret starred with Elvis Presley at Viva Las Vegas in 1963, the same year that Elvis's young girlfriend, Priscilla, moved in with the King at his Graceland home. Although Elvis and Priscilla were a couple and eventually married, Elvis continued an affair with his co-star, Ann-Margret. When Priscilla found out about the affair, she naturally became upset and angry. As for Ann-Margret, Elvis fell in love with the Swedish-American star, although he remained with his girlfriend.

Tom Loughlin and his wife, Delores Taylor, in a scene from the 1971 film "Billy Jack"

Actor Tom Laughlin and his wife, Dolores Taylor, both debuted in Billy Jack, a film that was conceived, written, directed, and produced by the couple. Laughlin attended the University of Wisconsin, then transferred to Marquette University before transferring again to the University of South Dakota. It was here that he met graphic design student Dolores Taylor, who later became his wife. It was also in South Dakota where Laughlin witnessed the mistreatment of Native Americans. This inspired him to write the screenplay for Billy Jack, which he made into a film in 1971. This was followed by The Trial of Billy Jack in 1974 and Billy Jack Goes to Washington in 1976.

Gregory Peck won an Oscar for Best Actor in 1962 for his role as Atticus Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird.

It's hard to imagine another actor playing the pivotal role of Atticus Finch in the 1962 film To Kill a Mockingbird, based on Harper Lee's novel of the same name. Gregory Peck did such a great job playing the intelligent single father and small-town lawyer amid racial injustice in the 1950s South that he won an Academy Award for Best Actor for the role. But did you know that Gregory Peck was not director Robert Mulligan's first choice to play the role? In fact, he wasn't even the second choice. Initially, he wanted James Stewart to play the role of Atticus Finch but he declined because he felt the film was too controversial. Subsequently, the studio chose Rock Hudson for the role, but the film's producer Alan J. Pakula did not think Hudson was that big a star. He wanted a big name.

Bo Diddley and The Clash on a tour bus during The Clash's 1979 US tour, Diddley being the opening act for them

It might seem like an odd combination for American blues artist Bo Diddley to hang out on a tour bus with British punk rock band, The Clash, but this photo taken in 1979 shows exactly that. Bo Diddley, whose real name was Ellis McDaniel, was an eclectic artist. He incorporated African rhythms, hambone beats, and traditional blues elements into his music. He was a key player in the transformation of rhythm and blues into rock and roll. Because of this, many artists cite Bo Diddley as influencing their musical styles, including the Beatles, Elvis, the Rolling Stones, and – you guessed it – the Clash. When The Clash toured the US in 1979, they invited Bo Diddley to be their opening act.

A drink, a cigar and no shoes - this woman was a rebel in the 1950s