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The Lincoln Memorial is a national monument in **Washington, D.C.**, dedicated to **Abraham Lincoln**, the 16th President of the United States. It honors Lincoln’s legacy in preserving the Union during the Civil War and advancing the cause of liberty and equality.
Location and Design
- Located at the **west end of the National Mall**, opposite the U.S. Capitol
- Designed by architect **Henry Bacon**
- Resembles a **Greek Doric temple** with 36 columns, each representing a state in the Union at the time of Lincoln’s death in 1865
Interior Features
- A massive **19-foot marble statue** of Lincoln seated, sculpted by **Daniel Chester French**
- Two major inscriptions:
- The **Gettysburg Address** - Lincoln’s **Second Inaugural Address**
- Symbolic murals and inscriptions representing unity, freedom, and justice
Dedication and History
- Dedicated on **May 30, 1922**
- Attended by Lincoln’s only surviving son, **Robert Todd Lincoln**
- Segregation was still in effect at the time of the dedication ceremony
Role in Civil Rights Movement
The Lincoln Memorial has become a historic site for civil rights activism:
- **Marian Anderson** performed here in 1939 after being denied access to Constitution Hall
- **Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.** delivered his iconic "**I Have a Dream**" speech on its steps during the 1963 **March on Washington**
Symbolism
- The seated posture of Lincoln reflects strength, thoughtfulness, and compassion
- The 36 columns represent unity, while additional stones name all 50 states and U.S. territories
Visitor Experience
- Open to the public year-round, 24 hours a day
- Illuminated beautifully at night
- Accessible by foot from the National Mall, often visited along with:
- Washington Monument - Vietnam Veterans Memorial - Korean War Veterans Memorial
Fun Facts
- The statue was originally intended to be 10 feet tall, but was enlarged to 19 feet
- The Lincoln Memorial appears on the back of the U.S. penny and $5 bill
- It’s one of the most visited landmarks in the U.S., drawing millions of visitors annually