140 years ago, the Statue of Liberty arrived in New York as a global emblem of peace

One day like today (June 17th), but in 1885, one of the world's most emblematic monuments arrived at the port of New York: the Statue of Liberty. Wrapped in a powerful symbolism of freedom and brotherhood between nations, its 350 pieces, distributed in more than 200 boxes, crossed the Atlantic from France aboard the frigate Isère, to be assembled on American soil.

Designed by the French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi (with structural engineering by Gustave Eiffel, the same creator of the iconic Parisian tower), the statue not only represents the ideals of freedom and democracy, but also the historical alliance between France and United States. Her face, as documented, was inspired by the sculptor's mother, while the seven points of her crown symbolize the seven continents and the world's seas.

Pulitzer and the Power of a Dollar

Although its definitive installation occurred in 1886, the history of the monument began more than a decade earlier. The initial works started in the 1870s of the 19th century and, by 1876, the head and the arm with the torch had already been completed. These parts were exhibited in several international exhibitions (such as the Centennial in Philadelphia and in Madison Square Park in Manhattan) to encourage popular support and raise funds for its pedestal, which would be financed by the Americans. One of the key players at this stage was Joseph Pulitzer, editor of the New York World, who spearheaded a crowdfunding campaign that managed to mobilize more than 120,000 people. Most donated less than a dollar (but the impact was enough to move forward with the construction of the pedestal on Bedloe's Island, now known as Liberty Island).

From Copper to Hopeful Green

After completing its assembly, the Statue of Liberty (officially named Liberty Enlightening the World) was inaugurated on October 28, 1886, by President Grover Cleveland. With a height of almost 100 meters, it became the tallest structure in New York City at that time. Its surface, originally a bright copper color, acquired the characteristic blue-green tone due to the natural oxidation of the metal.

An Icon That Defies Time

Since then, this colossus has welcomed millions of immigrants who arrived in the United States hoping for a new beginning. For many, its silhouette was the first vision of America (a beacon of hope, dignity, and freedom). Today, on the 140th anniversary of its arrival at the New York harbor, the Statue of Liberty not only remains as one of the most visited tourist icons in the world, but also as a living testament to the power of collaboration between peoples and the persistence of the values that have marked modern history. A torch still stands tall (defying time and storms), reminding the world that freedom (though often fragile) can cross oceans and stand firm on solid ground.