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
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).
