2019 in Photos: How the First Months Unfolded

Time to take a look at some of the most memorable events and images of 2019. Events covered in this essay include the abdication of Japan’s Emperor Akihito, a performance by Lil Nas X, a landing on the far side of the moon, and much more.

As the year comes to a close, it’s time to take a look at some of the most memorable events and images of 2019. Events covered in this essay (the first of a three-part photo summary of the year) include the abdication of Japan’s Emperor Akihito, a performance by Lil Nas X, the impact of Cyclone Idai in Mozambique, the battle for the last holdout of the Islamic State, a landing on the far side of the moon, and much more. See also “Top 25 News Photos of 2019,” and “2019 in Photos: Part 2,” and “2019 in Photos: Part 3.” The series comprises 120 images in all.