The Washington Monument is a towering structure located in Washington D.C., which serves as a symbol of the United States of America. It is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the country and is visited by millions of tourists each year. In this article, we will explore the background, importance, construction, design, height, interesting facts, and role of the Washington Monument in American history and popular culture.
Background of the Washington Monument
The idea for the Washington Monument was first proposed in 1783, shortly after the death of George Washington, the first President of the United States. However, it was not until 1833 that the Washington National Monument Society was formed to oversee its construction. The original design by Robert Mills called for a 600-foot tall obelisk surrounded by 30 smaller columns and a statue of Washington on top. However, due to lack of funding and political turmoil, the project was put on hold for many years.
Importance of the Washington Monument
The Washington Monument serves as a symbol of the ideals and values of the United States of America. It honors the legacy of George Washington and his contributions to the American Revolution and the founding of the country. It also represents the unity and strength of the American people, who came together to build this monument despite political and financial challenges.
The Construction of the Washington Monument
The construction of the Washington Monument began in 1848 and was completed in 1884, over 30 years later. The process was delayed by financial issues, the Civil War, and design changes. The original design was simplified to include only the obelisk, which stands at a height of 555 feet and 5 inches. The exterior of the monument is made of white marble from Maryland and the interior is lined with commemorative stones from various states and organizations.
The Design of the Washington Monument
The design of the Washington Monument is simple but elegant. The obelisk shape was inspired by ancient Egyptian architecture and symbolizes the eternal nature of Washington’s legacy. The monument is surrounded by 50 American flags, representing the 50 states of the country. It also has a small elevator that can take visitors to the top, where they can enjoy panoramic views of Washington D.C.
The Height of the Washington Monument
The height of the Washington Monument is 555 feet and 5 inches, making it the tallest stone structure and the tallest obelisk in the world. It held this title until the completion of the Eiffel Tower in 1889. It is also the tallest structure in Washington D.C. and can be seen from many parts of the city.
Interesting Facts About the Washington Monument
One interesting fact about the Washington Monument is that it has suffered several structural issues over the years, including cracks and earthquake damage. It was closed for repairs for nearly three years after a 5.8-magnitude earthquake in 2011. Another interesting fact is that the monument has a time capsule inside the cornerstone, which was placed there in 1848. It contains various items, such as newspapers, coins, and documents, that provide a snapshot of life in the 19th century.
The Role of the Washington Monument in American History
The Washington Monument has played a significant role in American history, both as a symbol of national pride and as a site for important events. For example, Martin Luther King Jr. gave his famous "I Have a Dream" speech at the base of the monument during the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. It has also been the site of presidential inaugurations, Fourth of July celebrations, and other important events.
The Washington Monument in Popular Culture
The Washington Monument has appeared in many works of popular culture, such as movies, TV shows, and books. For example, it is featured in the movie "National Treasure" as a key plot point. It is also mentioned in the book "The Da Vinci Code" as a symbol of the Freemasons.
Example Sentence Using the Washington Monument
"The Washington Monument is a towering obelisk that serves as a symbol of the United States of America and honors the legacy of George Washington, the first President of the country."
Conclusion
The Washington Monument is a remarkable structure that represents the ideals and values of the United States of America. It is a testament to the perseverance and ingenuity of the American people and serves as a reminder of the important role that George Washington played in the country’s history. It continues to be a popular tourist destination and an important site for national events and celebrations.
References
- "Washington Monument." National Park Service. https://www.nps.gov/wamo/index.htm.
- "Washington Monument." History.com. .
- "10 Facts About the Washington Monument." Mental Floss. .
