Marilyn Monroe (born Norma Jeane Mortenson; June 1, 1926 – August 5, 1962) was the 20th Century’s greatest sex symbol. Her childhood with a mentally unstable mother was rough, punctuated by spells in foster homes and an orphanage. Her father was notable only by his absence.
Norma never was adopted from the Los Angeles Orphans Home. Incapable of caring for Norma, Gladys refused to formally let her daughter go. For a while Norma lived with Gladys’ friend, Grace McKee, but when she married “Doc” he allegedly attempted to molest her. Doc stayed. Norma was shunted out to her great-aunt Olive Brunings. Olive’s son also, as is alleged, sexually abused her. So. Norma moved again, this time to live with her aunt, Ana Lower. That failed. And in 1942, 16-year-old Norma returned to Grace’s home.
After working as a photographic model, very soon Hollywood and a new life beckoned…
Would you like to support Flashbak?
Please consider making a donation to our site. We don't want to rely on ads to bring you the best of visual culture. You can also support us by signing up to our Mailing List. And you can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. For great art and culture delivered to your door, visit our shop.
