28 Amazing facts - Statue of liberty
Posted by Olympiad Tester on
Embark on a journey to the iconic Statue of Liberty in the heart of New York Harbor, a symbol of freedom and democracy. Explore 30 amazing facts about the Statue of Liberty:
The Statue of Liberty, officially titled "Liberty Enlightening the World," was a gift from the people of France to the United States.
Designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the statue's framework was built by Gustave Eiffel, the engineer behind the Eiffel Tower.
The statue's full name is "Liberty Enlightening the World," emphasizing its role in symbolizing freedom and enlightenment.
French poet and abolitionist Édouard René de Laboulaye proposed the idea for the statue as a gift to celebrate the centennial of American independence and the end of slavery.
The statue's face is said to be inspired by the features of Isabella Eugénie Boyer, the sculptor's mother, and its body by his wife, Jeanne-Emilie Bartholdi.
The statue's official dedication took place on October 28, 1886, on what is now known as Liberty Island in New York Harbor.
The seven spikes on the statue's crown represent the seven continents, symbolizing universal liberty.
The tablet held in the statue's left hand is inscribed with the date of the Declaration of Independence, July 4, 1776.
The broken chains at the statue's feet symbolize the end of oppression and tyranny.
The height of the statue from heel to tip of the torch is approximately 305 feet (93 meters).
Visitors can climb to the crown, which has 25 windows and provides panoramic views of New York City and the harbor.
The original torch was replaced in 1986 due to structural concerns. The original torch is on display in the pedestal lobby.
While the statue is green today, it was originally a shiny copper color. The green patina developed over time due to exposure to the elements.
The copper sheets used to create the statue are relatively thin, with a thickness of just 2.37 millimeters (0.09 inches).
The statue's torch has undergone several modifications, including being gilded with gold leaf during restorations in the early 1980s.
Liberty Island, formerly known as Bedloe's Island, was renamed in 1937 to reflect the statue's significance as a symbol of freedom.
The statue's flame is covered in 24-karat gold leaf, adding a gleaming touch to the torch.
The pedestal on which the statue stands houses the Statue of Liberty Museum, showcasing the statue's history and significance.
Before being assembled in the United States, the statue's copper pieces were displayed at the Paris World's Fair in 1878.
The statue has undergone multiple restorations over the years, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
The original torch was exhibited in Madison Square Park in New York City for six years before being moved to its current location in the pedestal.
France provided not only the statue but also the pedestal, while the United States funded the construction of the pedestal and the assembly of the statue.
On windy days, the statue can sway up to three inches (7.6 centimeters), and the torch can sway even more.
The statue's exterior is made of copper, while the interior framework is composed of iron and stainless steel.
While the statue represents freedom and democracy, it is also a symbol of Franco-American friendship and collaboration.
The pedestal's foundation reaches down to bedrock, providing stability for the statue amid the changing conditions of the island's soil.
The statue has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and cultural representations, solidifying its place as an iconic symbol of the United States.
From its perch in New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty continues to welcome millions of visitors and stand as a symbol of hope and liberty for people around the world.