Old picture goes viral, users claim boy is holding an “iPad” in 1941

A seemingly ordinary photograph from 1941 has sparked a lively online discussion, with some users suggesting it may contain references to time travel. The image, taken by Edwin Rosskam in Chicago's South Side, shows a group of well-dressed young people waiting in line to enter a movie theater. However, it is a detail in the background that has caught the attention of netizens.

On the far right of the photo, a teenager appears to be holding a rectangular object that bears a striking resemblance to a modern tablet or iPad. This detail has led some to speculate that the young man may have been a time traveler who inadvertently took a device from the future into the past.

iPad with film goes, all the way to the right
from you/bagelshmear2 intimetravelercaught

The photo was shared on the Reddit community “timetravelerscaught,” where one user noted: “A moviegoer with an iPad, far right.”

Another user agreed: “If you zoom in really close, it's too big to be a 'book' or 'notepad' and also you can see what looks like the iconic Apple logo on the back.”

Others believe that the young person is simply holding a notebook. One commentator said: “It looks like a book to me.”

Another user provided some historical background, explaining, “In the early days of film, ushers would search the audience for pens and notepads to prevent pirated copies of the film.”

One commenter humorously questioned the scenario, writing, “If I could travel through time, had an iPad, and was black, why on earth would I drive to the South Side of Chicago in 1941 to see an Aldrich Family matinee?! Everyone knows that the one and only Henry Aldrich was played by Jimmy Lydon, not Jackie Cooper.”

Another commenter admired the vintage charm of the photo, saying: “They are all so beautifully dressed. Going to the cinema in their Sunday best must have been a fantastic treat.”

Someone else agreed, adding: “Part of me wishes we still dressed up like this for the little things, but then I wonder if I'm even going to shower today.” Another agreed: “It's amazing how well dressed they all are. The little man hats are so cute.”

One user wrote: “It's most likely the Bible. They have their Sunday best on, God bless their little souls. Yes, I definitely think that's it.”

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