The Statue of Liberty: 15 Fascinating Facts

Introduction:

The Statue of Liberty is an iconic symbol of freedom and democracy located in New York City. Standing tall on Liberty Island in the New York Harbor, this monumental statue has a rich history and holds many fascinating secrets. In this article, we will explore 15 intriguing facts about the Statue of Liberty that you may not have known before.

Fact 1: The Statue of Liberty was a gift from France to the United States.

One of the most well-known facts about the Statue of Liberty is that it was a gift from the people of France to the United States. It was designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and was dedicated on October 28, 1886.

Fact 2: The statue’s full name is “Liberty Enlightening the World.”

While most people refer to it simply as the Statue of Liberty, its official name is “Liberty Enlightening the World.” The statue symbolizes freedom and democracy and is a beacon of hope for people around the world.

Fact 3: The Statue of Liberty is made of copper.

Contrary to popular belief, the Statue of Liberty is not made of solid gold. In fact, it is made of copper sheets that are only about 3/32 of an inch thick. Over time, the copper has developed a green patina, giving the statue its iconic appearance.

Fact 4: The statue’s torch is covered in gold leaf.

While the rest of the statue is made of copper, the torch that Lady Liberty holds is covered in gold leaf. The torch symbolizes enlightenment and is meant to guide ships safely into the New York Harbor.

Fact 5: The statue was assembled in New York City.

Although the statue was a gift from France, it was actually assembled in New York City. The statue arrived in pieces in 1885 and was reassembled on its pedestal on Liberty Island.

Fact 6: The Statue of Liberty’s crown has seven rays.

One of the most distinctive features of the Statue of Liberty is its crown, which has seven rays representing the seven continents of the world. The crown was originally designed to be a hat, but Bartholdi changed it to a crown during the construction process.

Fact 7: The statue’s tablet has the date of American Independence.

In one hand, the Statue of Liberty holds a tablet inscribed with the date of American Independence, July 4, 1776. This symbolizes the United States’ commitment to freedom and democracy.

Fact 8: The Statue of Liberty’s torch has been closed to the public since 1916.

While visitors can still climb to the crown of the Statue of Liberty, the torch has been closed to the public since 1916. The decision was made for safety reasons after a bombing on nearby Black Tom Island.

Fact 9: The statue’s pedestal was funded by donations from American citizens.

The pedestal on which the Statue of Liberty stands was funded by donations from American citizens. The project was spearheaded by newspaper publisher Joseph Pulitzer, who raised over $100,000 for the pedestal through a fundraising campaign.

Fact 10: The statue was originally intended for Egypt.

Before it was gifted to the United States, the Statue of Liberty was originally intended for Egypt. However, due to political turmoil in the country, the statue was rerouted to New York City.

Fact 11: The statue’s face was modeled after the sculptor’s mother.

Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi modeled the face of the Statue of Liberty after his mother, Charlotte. He felt that his mother’s kind and serene expression captured the essence of freedom and democracy.

Fact 12: The Statue of Liberty was the first thing immigrants saw when arriving in the United States.

For millions of immigrants who came to the United States through Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty was the first thing they saw when arriving in the country. The statue became a symbol of hope and opportunity for those seeking a better life.

Fact 13: The statue’s torch was exhibited at the 1876 Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia.

Before being placed on the Statue of Liberty, the torch was exhibited at the 1876 Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia. Visitors were able to climb up into the torch and get a preview of what the completed statue would look like.

Fact 14: The Statue of Liberty has been featured in numerous movies and TV shows.

Over the years, the Statue of Liberty has been featured in numerous movies and TV shows, becoming a symbol of American culture. Some notable appearances include “Planet of the Apes,” “Ghostbusters II,” and “National Treasure.”

Fact 15: The statue’s formal name is “Liberty Enlightening the World.”

Despite its commonly known name, the Statue of Liberty’s formal name is “Liberty Enlightening the World.” It stands as a testament to the ideals of freedom and democracy that the United States was founded upon.

Conclusion

The Statue of Liberty is not just a monument; it is a symbol of freedom, democracy, and hope. Its towering presence in New York Harbor has inspired generations of Americans and visitors from around the world. With its rich history and fascinating facts, the Statue of Liberty continues to be a beacon of light for all who believe in the values of liberty and justice.