The Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. A symbol of freedom and democracy, it stands tall in New York City’s harbor. But why is there a smaller version of the statue in Paris, France?
The History
The Statue of Liberty was a gift from France to the United States as a token of friendship and cooperation between the two nations. It was designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and built by Gustave Eiffel (yes, the same Eiffel who built the Eiffel Tower). The statue was shipped across the Atlantic Ocean in pieces and assembled on an island in New York Harbor called Bedloe’s Island (now Liberty Island).
But before it made its way to America, Bartholdi wanted to showcase his masterpiece in his home country. So, he built a smaller version of the statue (about 1/4th the size) and placed it on an island called Île aux Cygnes (Island of Swans) in Paris.
The Design
The statue in Paris looks very similar to its big sister in New York City. It stands at 22 meters tall and faces west towards her larger counterpart. Like the original statue, she is holding a torch in her right hand and a tablet inscribed with “IV Juillet 1776” (July 4th, 1776 – American Independence Day) in her left hand.
The Symbolism
The Statue of Liberty represents freedom and democracy, but it also symbolizes Franco-American friendship. The statue was given as a gift from France to America to celebrate their alliance during the American Revolution. It was meant to be a symbol of hope for immigrants coming to America seeking freedom and opportunity.
Similarly, the smaller version of the statue in Paris represents French-American friendship. It serves as a reminder of the bond between the two nations and their shared values of liberty, equality, and democracy.
Conclusion
The Statue of Liberty is not just an American icon, but an international symbol of freedom and democracy. The smaller version in Paris serves as a reminder of the bond between France and America and the importance of their shared values. Both statues stand as a testament to the enduring power of friendship and cooperation between nations.
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