Statue of Liberty: Symbol of Freedom and Franco-American Friendship

Statue of Liberty: Complete History and Detailed Meaning

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Published in 03-18-2025

The Statue of Liberty was a gift from France to the United States in 1886 to celebrate the centennial of American independence and symbolize the friendship between both countries.

Design and Construction: It was designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, and its internal structure was created by Gustave Eiffel, the same engineer behind the Eiffel Tower.

Transport and Assembly: The statue was built in France, disassembled into 350 pieces, and shipped by boat to New York, where it was reassembled on a pedestal on Liberty Island.

Construction of the Statue of Liberty: A Gift from France to the United States

Photo: Pierre Blaché
Symbolism: It represents freedom and democracy. It holds a torch in its right hand and a tablet in its left hand inscribed with the date of American independence, July 4, 1776.

Inauguration: It was inaugurated on October 28, 1886, in a ceremony presided over by President Grover Cleveland, becoming one of the most iconic monuments in the world.

Recognition and Preservation: In 1984, UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site. It has been restored several times to preserve its structure and historical significance.

Curiosities: Its metal structure allows it to withstand strong winds and climate changes. Originally, it had a copper color, but over time, it acquired its characteristic green hue due to the oxidation of the copper.

The Statue of Liberty remains a universal symbol of hope and freedom, welcoming millions of visitors each year to New York Harbor.