Evacuation of the Armenians of Musa Ler by French ships

The photograph shows the evacuation of the Armenian civilian population of Musa Ler by French ships in 1915. Facing Ottoman violence, the Armenians of Musa Ler organised self-defence and resisted superior forces for about 40 days. In the end, the French fleet evacuated thousands of women, children and elderly people.

The picture shows a rocky shore with logs. People with bundles are boarding a long wooden boat, some of them wearing helmets. A ship can be seen out at sea.

The self-defence of Musa Ler became a symbol of united will, resistance and survival during the years of the Armenian Genocide.