History Designed and built by French sculptor Frederic Bartholdi (also built the Eiffel Tower) Originally was called “Liberty Enlightening the World” Designed as an emblem of solidarity between France and the U.S. and as a sign of their mutual desire for liberty.

History Despite unprecedented economic growth, the statue’s supporters struggled to raise funds. In fact, no money at all had been raised by In New York, Middle class felt it was the responsibility of the rich; others felt that the money might be better spent on the poor. Elsewhere in the country, few were inclined to donate money for a large French sculpture in New York.

History Funds were raised through theatrical events, art exhibitions, auctions, and even prize fights. However, by 1885 it was clear these efforts were inadequate. The breakthrough came when a Hungarian immigrant named Joseph Pulitzer used the power of his newspaper, The World, to rouse, persuade, cajole, browbeat, and even shame the public into donating to the pedestal fund. The pedestal was built, the statue assembled and the dedication took place on Oct. 29 th, 1886.

Statue of Liberty Symbolism

What is a symbol? A symbol is something used for or regarded as representing something else; a material object representing something, often something immaterial; emblem, token, or sign. What is symbolism? the practice of representing things by symbols, or of investing things with a symbolic meaning or character. (Duh)

The Torch The first part of the Statue-built in It symbolizes that light (or enlightenment) is the key to achieving freedom. Without seeing that freedom exists, one cannot obtain it. The torch is the strongest symbol that Bartholdi incorporated into the Statue. In fact the Statue's real name reflects its true meaning: "Liberty Enlightening the World". This torch was taken down in 1984 and replaced with a new flame in 1986 (Statue's 100th birthday). The new flame is copper, gilded in 24kt. gold. It is now lighted by reflection of the sun during the day and by 16 floodlights at night. The torch has been closed to visitors since 1916.

The Crown The statue wears a crown with seven spikes. This represents the 7 seas and 7 continents of the world, re-enforcing the universal concept of liberty.

The Tablet Bartholdi created different versions of this statue, not sure which one was best. He eventually chose to have the Statue hold a tablet in her left hand. It is a book of law based on the founding principles of this nation, a nation based on law.

Tablet Writing The Statue's tablet contains writing on it. This was one of the last changes that Bartholdi made to the Statue. It was originally left blank. Bartholdi placed the date of America's independence on the tablet ( JULY IV MDCCLXXVI). They are in roman numerals, which are symbolic of law.

Tablet Shape Do you know what the tablet's shape is called? It is a keystone. In architecture, a keystone is the stone which keeps the others together. Without it everything would fall apart. The keystone of this nation is the fact that it is based on law. Without law, freedom and democracy would not prevail.

Windows Windows of the crown (25) represent the heaven's rays of light that shine over the 7 seas and continents. They ’ re said to shine like gemstones.

Sandals The Statue of Liberty actually wears sandals. She is also not standing still. Even though the Statue stands on a pedestal, she is actually walking ahead moving forward. This goddess is lighting the path to freedom through peace, not violence. Her footwear also suggests her stature as a free person

Robe The Statue of Liberty wears a free-flowing robe or stola, which powerfully refers to the Roman influence of the goddess "Libertas", which was worshipped by freed slaves.

Broken Chains The chains, located at the Statue's feet, symbolize the freedom that Lady Liberty has. It demonstrates that the Statue is free from slavery and bondage. One idea of placing chains, with a broken shackle, in the Statue's left hand was considered. Bartholdi eventually changed their location to her feet. A tablet of law was placed in her left hand instead, adding another dimension to the Statue's symbolism. The Statue of Liberty ’ s creation has a direct connection with America's abolition movement and the Civil War. This important symbolic feature can only be seen from the air or from the torch.

Pedestal Shields Richard Morris Hunt made some representations in his pedestal design as well. He placed shields on each side of the pedestal symbolizing the states in the Union.

Granite Brick There are 13 layers of granite that comprise the body of the pedestal. What could this be symbolic of as it relates to American history?

The New Colossus Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame, With conquering limbs astride from land to land; Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name Mother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand Glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame. Keep ancient lands, your storied pomp!" cries she With silent lips. "Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, The wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send these, the homeless, tempest-post to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"