The history of the Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty, one of the world's most famous monuments, is a symbol of freedom, independence and democracy. Erected on Liberty Island in New York harbor, it was a gift from France to the United States in 1886 to celebrate the centenary of the American Declaration of Independence. This bronze statue, over 46 meters high, has a fascinating history dating back to the 19th century.

The origin of the Statue of Liberty

The statue was designed by French sculptor Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi and built in collaboration with French engineer Gustave Eiffel. Bartholdi imagined the statue in 1865, during a trip to Egypt. Looking at the pyramids, he conceived the idea of a colossal statue to commemorate the friendship between France and the United States.

The construction of the statue

Construction of the Statue of Liberty began in Paris in 1875. Bartholdi created a model of the statue, which was enlarged to produce life-size plaster molds. The copper for the statue was manufactured in France and then sent to New York, where the statue's iron structure was built.

The statue was built in several sections, and the parts were shipped to New York. Once all the sections had been assembled, the statue was covered with a thin layer of copper, and the torch and flame were installed.

Inauguration of the statue

The Statue of Liberty was inaugurated on October 28, 1886 in an official ceremony presided over by U.S. President Grover Cleveland. Thousands gathered on Liberty Island to witness the historic event.

Statue features

The Statue of Liberty is a 46.05-metre-high bronze structure weighing around 225 tonnes. The statue is depicted holding a lighted torch in its right hand, symbolizing liberty and justice, and a tablet in its left hand, representing the U.S. Declaration of Independence. The seven rays on his crown represent the seven continents and seas of the world.

The impact of the Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty has become a universal symbol of freedom, independence and democracy. Considered a gift from France to America, it has also become a symbol of the friendship between the two nations. The statue has become a popular tourist attraction, with millions of visitors coming every year to see it up close.

Restoring the statue

Over the years, the statue suffered damage from weathering and air pollution. In 1984, the U.S. government launched a major restoration program for the statue, costing over $230 million. The restoration involved replacing the statue's interior wire mesh and renovating the crown, torch and base.

The statue's significance today

Today, the Statue of Liberty is still an important symbol of freedom and independence. It is also seen as a symbol of hope and opportunity for many who come to the United States in search of a better life.

Places of interest around the statue

• The statue is also known as «Liberty Enlightening the World».
• The statue has been used as a backdrop for numerous films and TV shows, including «Ghostbusters II» and «Person of Interest».
• The torch on the statue was replaced by a new gold flame in 1986, to mark the statue's centenary.
• It is possible to climb the 354 steps inside the statue to reach the top of the crown.
• Because of its position on Liberty Island, the statue was used as a lighthouse for ships entering New York harbor.

Conclusion

The Statue of Liberty is a symbol of freedom, independence and democracy donated by France to the United States to celebrate the centenary of the Declaration of Independence. This bronze statue, built by the French sculptor Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi and the French engineer Gustave Eiffel, has become one of the world's most famous landmarks. a popular tourist attraction and a universal symbol of hope and opportunity. Today, the statue continues to remind the world of the ideals of freedom and democracy.

FAQ

When was the Statue of Liberty donated to the United States?

The Statue of Liberty was donated to the United States in 1886.

Who designed the statue?

The statue was designed by French sculptor Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi.

How long did it take to build the statue?

The Statue of Liberty took around 9 years to build.

How tall is the statue?

The statue is 46.05 metres high.

How many steps are there inside the statue?

There are 354 steps inside the statue to reach the top of the crown.

 

See also..: Complete guide to visiting the United States, Visit Central Park: everything you need to know, Visit Times Square, a New York landmark.