Liberty Island in New York Harbor is home to an immensely symbolic statue the Statue of Liberty. This statue, donated to the people of America by the French, was set up in 1886. Designed by French sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi, the statue depicts a robed female figure holding a torch aloft & a tablet inscribed with the date of the American Declaration of Independence. Petticoat’s rule and tyranny are represented by her lying at the falling chain lying at her feet.
Beyond its artistic beauty, the Statue of Liberty has become a powerful symbol of freedom and democracy worldwide. It is an iconic statue that has brought millions of immigrants to the shores of America with hope and a better future for the people who wished. The means and symbols engraved on the statue of liberty and justice have served as an encouragement to people all over the world in the past. It motivated them to fight for their rights and freedom.
The Statue of Liberty initiative was taken way back in 1875 when French sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi thought of a mammoth neidan to mark the centenary of American Independence. Building was started in France and 1876, the arm holding the torch was displayed at the Philadelphia Centennial Exposition. The head and shoulders came next in 1878 at the Paris World’s Fair (also considered as interesting statue of liberty history facts today). By 1884, the whole statue was cast & shipped in parts to the United States for reassembling.
Another interesting one among the statue of liberty history facts is that its construction was an indication of appreciation of friendly relations between the United States and France. This was initiated by French historian and abolitionist Edouard de Laboulaye to pay respect to American democracy & the abolition of slavery.
While the French people collected money for the statue itself, Americans helped finance the construction of the pedestal. This common work illustrated the concerns for each country’s freedom and egalitarianism. The Statue of Liberty therefore symbolizes the friendship between the United States of America and France that signifies eternity.
Importance of Statue of Liberty:
A source of pride and an emblem of freedom, democracy, and opportunity is what the Statue of Liberty actually means. The answer to why is the statue of liberty important lies in the ideals reflected by the features of the statue design. The lighted torch signifies education, knowledge, the passion for learning, and the knowledge that the world seeks. The broken chains at the statue’s feet represent the overthrow of tyranny and the hope for a future free from oppression.
For ages now, the Statue of Liberty has been the first to greet millions of immigrants arriving in the United States providing hope. When new arrivals enter the country by boat, the figure of the statue shows a positive meaning associated with liberty and the possibility of a better life. For the immigrant, it becomes an embodiment of the American dream, the opportunity not to be poor, prosecuted, and in hardship. This is simply a warm call for human beings to start a noble journey that would improve their lives & those of their dependents as well.
As a result, the statue being an icon of liberty all over the world, Liberty Island became a part of the UNESCO world heritage site list in 1984. This status gives recognition of its artistic merits and its significant importance as a cultural and historical asset. It is also for representing the determination of a man’s history and culture. This monument carries its message to the hearts of thousands of individuals disregarding race or national barriers & staying a symbol of liberty, the human spirit, and democracy.
Who Built the Statue of Liberty?
The Statue of Liberty, an engineering marvel and an artistic masterpiece was created by both French and American crafts persons. However, the answer to who built the statue of liberty doesn’t end here. They were set by the influential French sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi who drew the thought of the statue. However, the metal work that was to go into the body of the statue was completed by the illustrious Gustave Eiffel, the architect of the shortened Eiffel Tower.
This monumental sculpture was constructed in France in segments as is commonly the tradition and then brought to America in pieces. Once it reached New York harbors, it was reconstructed on a pedestal that was designed to hold the statue.
Although the French nation offered to give the sculpture to Americans for free, Americans had to raise money for the pedestal of the statue. A charity drive was carried out and people of all classes and workers contributed huge assets. There were fundraising activities carried out by hardworking schools, churches, and different civil organizations aiming at raising money for the building of the pedestal. This combined action proved that the American people stand for the values that in a literal sense are embodied by the Statue of Liberty.
Fun Facts about the Statue of Liberty for Kids –
The Statue of Liberty is a famous landmark in the United States of America. It is a big, green lady holding a torch in her hands. Some of the fun facts about this statue or representation are:
- A Giant Copper Lady –
The Statue of Liberty is more like a giant statue. From her feet through the head and up to her torch, she is about 305 feet high. That can be enough to be compared to a 30-story building in America or even throughout the world.
- Statue Holds a Secret Inside –
This statue holds a special secret inside. There exists a staircase inside the statue that leads up to the crown. If you climb to the top, you can see amazing views of New York City.
- Gift from France –
As discussed above, this statue was gifted to the American people by the French people. It was a means of cementing the friendship between these 2 countries. The French people have paid for the creation of the statue, while Americans contributed towards the construction of the pedestal on which the statue now stands proudly.
- Has Face like a Real Person –
The face of the Statue of Liberty is based on the face of the sculptor’s mother. This makes it much more personal for the sculptor because it helps him understand the importance of freedom and perseverance.
- Symbol of Freedom –
The Statue of Liberty is an emblem of freedom. To Americans and international visitors alike, she says ‘Welcome to the United States of America’. The broken chains at the feet of the statue represent freedom from oppression.
- Consists of a Strong Skeleton –
To keep the Statue of Liberty standing strong, it has a strong iron skeleton. This skeleton helps support the copper skin of the statue. It also makes sure that the structure of the statue remains aligned and intact. The responsibility for the complete protection of the statue is on the skeleton itself.
- Home for Birds –
There exist so many birds that have made the Statue of Liberty their home. Seagulls, pigeons, and more continue to use the statue as their home. You can see their birds roosting and nestling on the statue’s bulk surface. It is evident that the statue is a historic and iconic landmark. It is a symbol of hope and freedom for people, not only in America but all around the world.
Location of Statue of Liberty:
The Statue of Liberty is situated on a small island in New York called Liberty Island. This beautiful island can only be accessed by ferry boat and affords a beautiful scenic view of the New York City skyline and water bodies. Large, green lawns, historical sights, and beautiful landscapes give the park the reputation of being one of the best tourist attractions for both locals and foreigners.
After knowing where is the statue of liberty located, it should also be understood that there exists only 1 way to get there, i.e., through a ferry boat. A ferry boat from Battery Park in Manhattan or Liberty Star Park to New Jersey can take you to the island. Once on Liberty Island, visitors can visit the new museum of the Statue of Liberty and/or ascend to the pedestal or crown of the statue to which a reservation is obligated.
Liberty Island is located near several fabulous sites which can also be seen while people are on their ferry rides from New York and New Jersey. The Ellis Island immigration museum, which discharged millions of other people in the final of the 19th and the pioneering portion of the 20th century, lies only a little ferrying distance abroad. Both of them are popular tourist attractions, mostly because they provide informative tours around the issue of immigration within the USA.
Furthermore, its location makes for a tremendous view of the entire New York skyline, including such highlights as the Empire State Building, the World Trade Center, and the Brooklyn Bridge. The Statue of Liberty and the Island in particular are important in generating a large chunk of economy of the New York City.
Due to the above features, the sculpture is visited by millions of people of all ages annually. The statue serves as a symbol, enhances tourism attraction, and therefore earns the city’s significant revenue. Ferry services to the island are provided by the local people. There also exist many areas of infrastructural and maintenance development that use a great number of employees.
Frequently Asked Questions –
1.How did America receive the Statue of Liberty?
The Statue of Liberty was a gift for the people of the United States received from the people of France.
2. What is the meaning of the Statue of Liberty?
The Statue of Liberty represents freedom, democracy, and opportunities. It symbolizes the reception immigrants receive when coming to the United States in search of a better life.
3. What is the significance of the tablet held by the Statue of Liberty?
The tablet held by the Statue of Liberty is inscribed with the date of the American Declaration of Independence which was 4 July 1776. This symbolizes the nation’s commitment to liberty and independence.
4. In what year was the Statue of Liberty monument inaugurated?
The inauguration of the Statue of Liberty was done on 28 October 1886.
5. How many meters tall is the Statue of Liberty with the pedestal?
The monument, including the pedestal, is about 93 meters or 305 feet tall.
Conclusion –
The Statue of Liberty is not only a symbol of undying faith in the justice system but also a symbol of persistence, hunger for independence, and consistency of actions. Visiting this place and living all the ancient memories and taking good values from there will never be an outdated thing even for many more years to come.
Therefore, make sure to properly plan and organize your visit to the Statue of Liberty and make it happen successfully. This way, you will be able to make a lot of lifelong memories for yourself and to share them with your family & friends.
