The Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is a world-renowned symbol of freedom and democracy. Located in New York Harbor, it has been welcoming visitors to the United States for over 130 years. The statue, formally known as Liberty Enlightening the World, was a gift from the people of France to the United States and was dedicated in 1886.
The History of the Statue of Liberty
The idea for the statue was proposed by the French historian Edouard de Laboulaye in 1865, to commemorate the friendship between the United States and France and to celebrate the two countries’ commitment to liberty and democracy. The statue was designed by French sculptor Frederic-Auguste Bartholdi, with the assistance of engineer Gustave Eiffel, who designed the statue’s internal metal structure. Construction of the statue began in France in 1875, and it was completed in 1884. The statue was disassembled and shipped to the United States in 350 pieces, where it was reassembled on a pedestal on Liberty Island in New York Harbor.
The Symbolism of the Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is an enduring symbol of freedom, democracy, and hope. The statue is modeled after the Roman goddess Libertas, who symbolized freedom and independence. The statue’s torch, which represents enlightenment, is a powerful symbol of the values that the United States stands for. The statue also represents the friendship between the United States and France, and the shared values of liberty and democracy that the two countries hold dear.
The Materials Used in the Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is made of copper sheets, which are supported by an iron framework. The statue’s torch is made of gold leaf, and its flame is covered in copper. The statue’s pedestal is made of granite and concrete.
The Design and Construction of the Statue of Liberty
The design of the Statue of Liberty was a collaborative effort between French sculptor Frederic-Auguste Bartholdi and engineer Gustave Eiffel. Bartholdi designed the statue, while Eiffel designed the statue’s internal metal structure. Construction of the statue took place in France, and the completed statue was disassembled and shipped to the United States in 350 pieces.
The Statue’s Original Location in New York City
When the Statue of Liberty arrived in the United States, it was placed on a pedestal on Bedloe’s Island, which was renamed Liberty Island in honor of the statue. The statue was originally located in New York Harbor, near the mouth of the Hudson River.
The Statue’s Move to Liberty Island
In 1937, the jurisdiction over Bedloe’s Island was transferred from the federal government to the city of New York. In 1956, the island was renamed Liberty Island, and the statue was placed under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service. In the 1980s, the statue underwent a major restoration, including the installation of a new torch and flame. The statue was reopened to the public in 1986, in time for its centennial.
The Location of Liberty Island in New York Harbor
Liberty Island is located in New York Harbor, just south of Manhattan and east of New Jersey. Visitors can reach the island by ferry from Battery Park in Lower Manhattan, or from Liberty State Park in Jersey City, New Jersey.
The Best Places to View the Statue of Liberty
There are many great vantage points from which to view the Statue of Liberty. One of the best is Battery Park, which offers stunning views of the statue and the harbor. Other great places to view the statue include Liberty State Park in Jersey City and the Staten Island Ferry.
Visiting the Statue of Liberty: Tickets and Tours
Visitors to the Statue of Liberty can purchase tickets to visit the pedestal or the crown, which offer stunning views of the harbor and city skyline. Guided tours are also available, which provide a fascinating look at the statue’s history and symbolism.
Conclusion: The Importance of the Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is an enduring symbol of freedom and democracy, and a powerful reminder of the values that the United States holds dear. It is a testament to the friendship between the United States and France, and a beacon of hope to people around the world. The statue is a must-see destination for visitors to New York City, and a source of pride for Americans everywhere.
References and Further Reading
- National Park Service. "Statue of Liberty National Monument." https://www.nps.gov/stli/index.htm
- The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation. "Statue of Liberty History."
- The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation. "How the Statue of Liberty was Built."
