Celebrating 137 Years of Freedom and Friendship: The Statue of Liberty’s Enduring Legacy

On October 28, 1886, an iconic symbol of liberty and hope was officially unveiled in New York Harbor. Today, the Statue of Liberty stands tall as a testament to the enduring French-American friendship and a beacon of freedom. On the 137th anniversary of this remarkable gift from France to the United States, we celebrate not only its historical significance but also its ongoing preservation.

A Symbol of Freedom:

The Statue of Liberty, a colossal neoclassical sculpture designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, was a gift from the people of France to the United States. It was intended to commemorate the centennial of the American Declaration of Independence and symbolize the shared values of liberty and democracy that both nations held dear. Standing at an impressive 151 feet and weighing 225 tons, Lady Liberty has since become an emblem of freedom, democracy, and human rights, inspiring generations of Americans and visitors worldwide.

The French-American Friendship:

The statue’s dedication in 1886 marked a significant milestone in the enduring friendship between France and the United States. A powerful symbol of solidarity, it was meant to remind the world of the alliance between the two nations during the American Revolution, when France provided critical support to the American cause. This historic partnership laid the foundation for the enduring French-American friendship that continues to thrive today.

Photo by Pierre Blaché: https://www.pexels.com/photo/statue-of-liberty-under-blue-sky-3554594/

The Restoration Efforts:

As the years have passed, the Statue of Liberty has faced the challenges of time, weather, and wear. To ensure the preservation of this iconic monument, organizations like the Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation have dedicated themselves to restoration and maintenance. The foundation’s commitment to safeguarding the statue’s structural integrity ensures that Lady Liberty will stand for generations to come.

Joining the Celebration:

On this 137th anniversary, let us join the Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation (@statueellisfdn) in celebrating this remarkable milestone. Their unwavering dedication to preserving the statue’s legacy is a testament to the enduring value of this iconic symbol.

The Statue of Liberty continues to stand as a radiant symbol of hope and freedom. Its torch, held high, represents the pursuit of liberty and justice for all. May it serve as a reminder that the values of democracy, liberty, and equality are not just ideals but enduring principles we must cherish and protect. Happy 137th birthday, Lady Liberty!

In the words of Bartholdi, the statue’s creator, “Liberty, when it begins to take root, is a plant of rapid growth.” The Statue of Liberty, after 137 years, still stands tall as a testament to the rapid growth of liberty and the enduring friendship between France and the United States.

Header Photo Credit by Nataraj Munoli: https://www.pexels.com/photo/statue-of-liberty-66709/

About the Author

Isabelle Karamooz, Founder of FQM is originally from Versailles, France. Isabelle harbored a lifelong fascination with exploring the world. Her journey began at 17 when she seized the opportunity to study abroad in Rhonda, Spain, igniting a passion for travel that took her across continents. From vibrant Hong Kong to picturesque Ireland, from the historic streets of Italy to the enchanting landscapes of Morocco, she embraced diverse cultures and experiences, truly embodying the spirit of a global citizen. After several years of exploration, Isabelle found a sense of home in Los Angeles, where she immersed herself in the vibrant cultural scene while working at the French Consulate. With a deep-seated love for the arts and history, she pursued her academic endeavors, earning a Bachelor's degree in History from the University of California, Berkeley. Furthering her dedication to education, she has studied to pursue a Master's program in teaching at the University of Southern California, eventually sharing her knowledge and passion as a French instructor for aspiring students at UNLV and CSN in Nevada. Driven by her passion for storytelling and cultural exchange, Isabelle founded French Quarter Magazine, where she serves as the Editor-in-Chief. In this role, she orchestrates the publication's diverse content, from conducting interviews and pitching story ideas to capturing captivating moments through photography. Currently, she is channeling her creative energies into her first English-language work, a novel that delves into the compelling life of Coco Chanel. Filled with adventure, intrigue, and a touch of romance, her debut novel promises to captivate readers with its rich tapestry of history and emotion.