The Statue of Liberty

Given to America by the French as a commemoration of international relations, the independence of America, and friendship in general, the Statue of Liberty is one of the world's most recognizable monuments. Located in the port of New York, New York, the famous statue received immigrants from around the world as it entered the U.S. through Ellis Island. It was designed by the French in late 1800 and still stands as a majestic symbol of welcome and friendship.

Sculptor Frederic Bartholdi was inspired by the magnitude of the Suez Canal and a huge beacon that attracted ships inland. Bartholdi designed the statue to resemble the Roman goddess of Liberty, majestic robes, flowing. Stern face of the statue was modeled after Bartholdi's mother, who was close with. Was initially intended for another project in Egypt, but failed, and Bartholdi released the design for the U.S. government. Which was accepted with enthusiasm, and began construction.

The statue itself took three years to build in France. Bartholdi had made numerous sketches of the model completely, so the actual physical work could begin quickly. Initially, a small bronze model was made. Then, plaster casts were carefully constructed so that the bronze could be poured easily and accurately. Finally, the pieces were forged of high quality French mine copper. In 1885, the fragmented pieces of the statue before it was shipped in pieces majestic to the United States, where he currently resides.

Financing problems plagued the project. Some people saw the placement of a French giant statue in a U.S. port in fear. Therefore, it was difficult to get people to cough up the large sum required for assembly and other costs. American community had not yet recovered from the shock of civil war and had to learn to trust yourself before you could rely on outside influences. However, in 1886, the pedestal of the statue was completed, and huge iron beams were established to set the stage for Lady Liberty. It took a relatively short period of four months to assemble the pieces of bronze that had been sent from France. Once assembled, the statue was received with great fanfare. Today, is a tireless tourist attraction. It is a ubiquitous fixture in New York and seen in countless movies, television, magazines and other media.

Initially, the bronze, the Statue of Liberty succumbed to the elements and is now a distinct shade of green. The original torch was replaced in 1986 to preserve its beauty. It worked like a beacon of light for a few years, until an explosion damaging forced the torch to be closed to visitors. Famous sonnet of Emma Lazarus, The New Colossus, is engraved on a bronze plaque on the pedestal and was commissioned for the statue. It is located near the American Museum of Immigration. The Statue of Liberty has been maintained for more than one hundred years as an icon of hope and inspiration for people of all nations, not just in and out of New York, but the United States.

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