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The Symbolism of the Statue of Liberty


For over a century, the Statue of Liberty has stood valiantly in the open air, symbolizing freedom throughout the world. She has held a patriotic place in each and every American heart since she was unveiled in October 1886, and has greeted all immigrants into Ellis Island, announcing that their journey to the "land of the free" has finally come to an end. Her flaming torch, flowing robes, and spiked crown have long since been an inspiration for American Pride, and the utter power and grace of her posture have given the United States a symbolic mascot that will forever display the power, wealth, and freedom of this great nation.

The Statue of Liberty is a monumental sculpture, portraying a woman escaping the chains of tyranny, which lie at her feet. Held aloft in her right hand is a flaming torch, representing liberty. Her left hand grasps a tablet on which is inscribed in roman numerals, the date the United States declared its independence, "July 4, 1776." She wears flowing robes, and the seven rays of her spiked crown that jets out into the sky symbolizes the seven seas and continents.