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* The internal framework was engineered by '''Gustave Eiffel''' (who also built the Eiffel Tower)
* The internal framework was engineered by '''Gustave Eiffel''' (who also built the Eiffel Tower)
* Shipped in pieces and reassembled in the U.S.
* Shipped in pieces and reassembled in the U.S.
* Dedicated on **October 28, 1886**, by President Grover Cleveland
* Dedicated on '''October 28, 1886''', by President Grover Cleveland


== Symbolism ==
== Symbolism ==
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== Fun Facts ==
== Fun Facts ==
* Originally copper-colored, the statue turned green due to oxidation
* Originally copper-colored, the statue turned green due to oxidation
* It weighs over **200 tons**
* It weighs over '''200 tons'''
* Once used as a lighthouse (1886–1902)
* Once used as a lighthouse (1886–1902)
* Replicas exist around the world — including in Paris and Las Vegas
* Replicas exist around the world — including in Paris and [[Las Vegas]]


== See Also ==
== See Also ==

Latest revision as of 20:47, 20 July 2025

Statue of Liberty
LocationLiberty Island, New York City, New York
EstablishedOctober 28, 1886
Height305 ft (93 m)
ArchitectFrédéric Auguste Bartholdi
MaterialCopper, iron
Visitors~4.5 million annually
Website[nps.gov/stli Official site]


The Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic symbols of the United States. Located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, it represents freedom, democracy, and hope.

Overview

Officially named "Liberty Enlightening the World," the statue was a gift from the people of France to the United States to commemorate the centennial of American independence.

It depicts a robed woman holding a torch in her right hand and a tablet in her left, inscribed with the date of the American Declaration of Independence: July 4, 1776.

History

  • Designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi
  • The internal framework was engineered by Gustave Eiffel (who also built the Eiffel Tower)
  • Shipped in pieces and reassembled in the U.S.
  • Dedicated on October 28, 1886, by President Grover Cleveland

Symbolism

  • Torch: Represents enlightenment and freedom
  • Crown with 7 rays: Symbolizes the seven continents and seas
  • Broken chains at her feet: Represent freedom from oppression
  • Tablet: Displays JULY IV MDCCLXXVI (July 4, 1776)

Tourism

  • Designated as a National Monument in 1924
  • Operated by the National Park Service
  • Visitors can explore the pedestal and, with reservations, the crown
  • Nearby Ellis Island is often included in visits

Fun Facts

  • Originally copper-colored, the statue turned green due to oxidation
  • It weighs over 200 tons
  • Once used as a lighthouse (1886–1902)
  • Replicas exist around the world — including in Paris and Las Vegas

See Also