Captured in 1907, Alfred Stieglitz's *The Steerage* depicts a crowded passenger ship divided between the wealthy upper deck and the immigrant-filled lower steerage section, separated by a gangway and a striking white gangplank. The composition's bold geometric forms and contrasting social classes create a visually and emotionally powerful image that blurs the line between documentary photography and fine art. Often considered one of the most important photographs in history, the work reflects Stieglitz's belief in photography as a legitimate and expressive art form.