Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is an iconic skyscraper located in the heart of New York City. The building stands at an impressive 1,454 feet tall and was once the tallest building in the world. Today, the Empire State Building remains a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of American engineering and industry.
The Building’s History
Construction of the Empire State Building began in 1930 during the Great Depression. The building was completed in just 13 months and officially opened on May 1, 1931. At the time, the Empire State Building was the tallest building in the world, and it held this title until 1970. The building has since undergone several renovations, including the addition of a new observation deck in 2005.
The Naming of the Building
The Empire State Building was named after former New York Governor Al Smith. Smith was a prominent political figure in the United States during the early 20th century and played a key role in the construction of the building.
The Selection Process
The decision to name the Empire State Building after Al Smith was not made lightly. Several other prominent figures were considered for the honor, including former US President George Washington and former New York Governor DeWitt Clinton.
The Final Decision
In the end, the decision to name the building after Al Smith was made by the building’s owner, John J. Raskob. Raskob was a friend and supporter of Smith and believed that the former governor deserved to be honored for his contributions to the city and the state.
Who Was George Washington?
George Washington was the first President of the United States and a key figure in American history. Washington played a critical role in the American Revolution and is widely regarded as one of the most important political and military leaders in US history.
Who Was Al Smith?
Al Smith was a prominent politician and businessman who served as the 42nd Governor of New York. Smith was born in the Lower East Side of Manhattan in 1873 and rose to prominence in the early 20th century as a progressive leader in the Democratic Party.
The Political Career of Al Smith
Smith first gained national attention in 1928 when he ran for President of the United States as the Democratic candidate. Although Smith lost the election, he became a prominent figure in national politics and continued to serve as Governor of New York until 1932.
Contributions of Al Smith
Al Smith is best known for his contributions to social welfare programs and his support for labor unions. As Governor of New York, Smith introduced several groundbreaking initiatives, including the creation of a state income tax and the establishment of a state department of labor.
The Legacy of the Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is widely regarded as one of the most important landmarks in New York City and a symbol of American ingenuity and innovation. The building has been featured in countless movies, television shows, and works of literature and remains a popular tourist attraction to this day.
The Significance of the Building’s Name
The decision to name the Empire State Building after Al Smith was an important one. Smith was a champion of working-class Americans and a prominent figure in the Democratic Party. By naming the building after Smith, Raskob and his associates were able to honor a man who had dedicated his life to public service.
Conclusion: The Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is an iconic symbol of American engineering and industry, and its name is a testament to the legacy of Al Smith. Although the building has undergone several renovations over the years, it remains one of the most important landmarks in New York City and a testament to the ingenuity and determination of the American people.
