The Statue of Liberty, Inspired by Law

The Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic images in the world. Located on Liberty Island, and viewable from Manhattan, in New York City, it has long stood as one of America’s strongest symbols for liberty and freedom.

The Statue Itself

The Statue of Liberty was designed by Frederic Auguste Bartholdi, and built by Gustave Eiffel. It was dedicated on October 28, 1886. Built entirely out of copper, the Statue of Liberty weighs several tons, and measures in at 151 feet tall.The statue is designed to look like the Roman goddess Libertas, who was the embodiment of justice. She holds a torch in her right hand, which is meant to light the way to justice for those who are lost, and in her left hand she holds a tablet which symbolizes the law of the land.

Further Links to Law

The statue itself was inspired by a French law professor named Edouard Rene de Laboulaye. He first dreamed up the idea of the statue early in 1865. He believed that the citizens of France owed a debt to America for spearheading the twin causes justice and democracy. He proposed that they pay the debt by commissioning and delivering a great monument, a dedication to liberty, to the people of the United States.

The Statue Today

The Statue of Liberty has had to undergo extensive renovations during its nearly 130 years of life. Most recently, from 1984-1986, when the torch and most of the interior of the structure were replaced. They had deteriorated to such a degree, that the statues structural integrity was at risk. Today the statue is in excellent shape. It is open to tourists, who are welcome to ascend to Lady Liberty’s crown, and take in a spectacular view of New York City.