Which president dedicated the Lincoln memorial?

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By Kristy Tolley

The Lincoln Memorial

The Lincoln Memorial is a majestic monument located in Washington D.C. that celebrates the life and legacy of the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. The memorial stands tall on the western end of the National Mall and is considered one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States.

The Construction of the Lincoln Memorial

The construction of the Lincoln Memorial began in 1914 and was completed in 1922. The design of the memorial was the result of a national competition that was won by architect Henry Bacon. The construction was funded by the government and private donations. The exterior of the memorial is made of white marble and features 36 columns representing the 36 states in the Union at the time of Lincoln’s death.

The Purpose of the Lincoln Memorial

The purpose of the Lincoln Memorial is to honor the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln, who is considered one of the greatest Presidents in American history. The memorial is also a symbol of national unity and commemoration of the sacrifices made during the Civil War. The memorial serves as a reminder of Lincoln’s leadership during a time of great crisis and his commitment to preserving the Union.

The Design of the Lincoln Memorial

The design of the Lincoln Memorial is inspired by the classical architecture of ancient Greece. The exterior of the memorial features a massive statue of Lincoln seated in a chair, facing the Washington Monument. The statue is made of white Georgia marble and stands 19 feet tall. The interior of the memorial features two murals depicting Lincoln’s great achievements and an inscription of his second inaugural address.

The Inscriptions on the Lincoln Memorial

One of the most notable inscriptions on the Lincoln Memorial is the text of his second inaugural address, which is engraved in the interior walls. The inscription reads, "With malice toward none; with charity for all; with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in; to bind up the nation’s wounds."

The Dedication of the Lincoln Memorial

The Lincoln Memorial was dedicated on May 30, 1922, by Chief Justice William Howard Taft. The dedication ceremony was attended by President Warren G. Harding, members of Congress, and other dignitaries. The ceremony included music performances and speeches by various officials and notable figures.

The Attendees of the Lincoln Memorial Dedication

The dedication ceremony of the Lincoln Memorial was attended by thousands of people from all over the country. The attendees included members of Congress, military leaders, and other notable figures, as well as ordinary citizens who came to pay their respects to Lincoln.

The Speeches Given at the Lincoln Memorial Dedication

The dedication ceremony of the Lincoln Memorial featured speeches by various officials and notable figures. One of the most memorable speeches was given by Robert Todd Lincoln, the son of Abraham Lincoln. In his speech, Robert Todd Lincoln praised his father’s leadership and called for national unity.

The Symbolism of the Lincoln Memorial

The Lincoln Memorial is a symbol of national unity and commemoration of the sacrifices made during the Civil War. The statue of Lincoln is a symbol of his leadership during a time of great crisis and his commitment to preserving the Union. The 36 columns surrounding the memorial represent the 36 states in the Union at the time of Lincoln’s death, symbolizing the unity of the country.

The Legacy of the Lincoln Memorial

The Lincoln Memorial is one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States and is visited by millions of people every year. The memorial is a testament to the enduring legacy of Abraham Lincoln, whose leadership during a time of crisis helped to shape the course of American history. The memorial serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving the values of freedom, democracy, and equality.

Conclusion: A Monument to Lincoln’s Legacy

The Lincoln Memorial is a monument to the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln, one of the greatest Presidents in American history. The memorial serves as a symbol of national unity and commemoration of the sacrifices made during the Civil War. The Lincoln Memorial is a testament to the enduring legacy of Lincoln’s leadership and his commitment to preserving the Union.

Further Reading on the Lincoln Memorial

For more information on the Lincoln Memorial, check out these resources:

  • National Park Service: Lincoln Memorial – https://www.nps.gov/linc/index.htm
  • Smithsonian Magazine: The Lincoln Memorial: The Story and the Meaning of an American Icon –
  • Lincoln Memorial University: The Lincoln Memorial –
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Kristy Tolley

Kristy Tolley, an accomplished editor at TravelAsker, boasts a rich background in travel content creation. Before TravelAsker, she led editorial efforts at Red Ventures Puerto Rico, shaping content for Platea English. Kristy's extensive two-decade career spans writing and editing travel topics, from destinations to road trips. Her passion for travel and storytelling inspire readers to embark on their own journeys.

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