The Statue of Liberty was a gift from the people of France almost 130 years ago. The monument is a testament of the friendship between France and the United States during the American Revolution. According to the National Park Service, Lady Liberty is an icon for freedom and -- according to the National Park Service website, is "the most recognizable symbol of democracy in the world." Artist Frederic-Auguste Bartholdi designed the statue and chose the New York Harbor as its home back in 1874. The statue was finished in July 1884 in France and arrived in New York the following year. The dedication of the sculpture took place in front of thousands on October 28, 1886, but the Statue of Liberty was not declared a national monument until 1924.
Emma Lazarus' famous poem, "The New Colossus" is engraved on a tablet on the statue's pedestal. Her words enliven Lady Liberty and highlight her welcoming stance: "I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"
As the most prominent structure in the District of Columbia, the Washington Monument stands over 555 feet tall and is one of the early attractions in the nation's capital. This historical monument was constructed in honor of George Washington and is shaped like an Egyptian obelisk. Admission to the monument is free but a ticket is required. Tickets are obtained from the Washington Monument Lodge, located along 15th Street. The monument, finished in 1884, offers views of more than 30 miles from the top.
The United States Capitol in Washington, D.C. is a historical monument that symbolizes the American people and their government. The capitol serves as a functioning office building, as well as the meeting place of the U.S. legislature. It also houses a collection of American art. The Capitol's Exhibition Hall features original artifacts, videos, documents, interactive displays and two small theaters that aim to provide an in-depth look at the Capitol's history, as well as the history of Congress and how it works. Visitors can take guided tours that begin on the lower level of the Capitol Visitor Center. Tours are free of charge, but passes are required.
The Liberty Bell resides in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania inside Independence National Historical Park. The bell weighs about 2,000 pounds and is constructed of 70 percent copper, 25 percent tin and small amounts of other metals like gold, silver, lead, zinc and arsenic. The Liberty Bell has a Bible verse inscription: "Proclaim LIBERTY throughout all the Land unto all the inhabitants thereof," from Leviticus 25:10. The bell has been cracked since 1846 after it rang for George Washington's birthday festivities. Visitors can see this historical monument at Liberty Bell Center to learn more about its origins and role as an international symbol of freedom.
