What is written on the Statue of Liberty’s tablet?

What is written on the Statue of Liberty’s tablet?

The tablet held by the Statue of Liberty, which is located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, is inscribed with the date “July 4, 1776” in Roman numerals, commemorating the signing of the United States Declaration of Independence. The tablet also bears the words “JULY IV MDCCLXXVI” (July 4, 1776 in Roman numerals) on its front, symbolizing the historical significance of this date as the birth of American independence. The tablet serves as a reminder of the values of freedom and liberty that the United States was founded upon.

FAQs about the Statue of Liberty’s tablet:

1. Why is the date July 4, 1776, significant?

The date July 4, 1776, is significant because it marks the day when the United States declared its independence from Great Britain. On this day, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, officially establishing the thirteen colonies as sovereign states.

2. Is the inscription on the tablet in English?

Yes, the inscription on the Statue of Liberty’s tablet is in English. This reflects the fact that English is the predominant language in the United States and underscores the importance of the English language in the country’s history and culture.

3. Can visitors get close enough to read the inscription on the tablet?

Unfortunately, visitors are not allowed to get close enough to the Statue of Liberty to read the inscription on the tablet. The statue itself is quite tall, standing at about 305 feet, and the tablet is located high up on the statue’s pedestal. However, there are replicas of the statue’s tablet on display at the Statue of Liberty Museum, where visitors can see the inscription up close.

4. Are there any other inscriptions on the Statue of Liberty?

Yes, besides the tablet, the Statue of Liberty features another significant inscription. At the base of the statue, there is a bronze plaque that has the famous poem “The New Colossus” written on it. This poem, written by Emma Lazarus, includes the iconic lines: “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.”

5. Is the inscription on the tablet the same on replicas of the statue?

Yes, the inscription on the tablet is the same on replicas of the Statue of Liberty. Whether it’s a smaller replica located elsewhere or a miniature souvenir version, the inscription typically remains consistent, emphasizing the importance of the July 4, 1776 date as a symbol of American independence.

6. What material is the tablet made of?

The tablet held by the Statue of Liberty is made of bronze, which is a durable and corrosion-resistant material. The bronze tablet adds a distinct visual element to the statue and complements the patina and coloration of the copper statue itself.

7. Has the tablet always been a part of the statue?

The tablet was not a part of the original design of the Statue of Liberty. It was added later to reinforce the symbolism of the statue as a representation of freedom and democracy. The tablet was designed by French sculptor Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi, who also created the statue.

8. Are there any translations of the inscription on the tablet?

Yes, the inscription on the tablet has been translated into different languages over the years for educational and informative purposes. Translations can be found in various exhibits and displays related to the Statue of Liberty, including the museum located on Liberty Island.

9. Is the date on the tablet the only reference to the Declaration of Independence?

No, besides the date on the tablet, the Statue of Liberty includes other references to the Declaration of Independence. One such reference is the broken chains at the feet of Lady Liberty, symbolizing the abolition of slavery after the American Civil War and the declaration of freedom for all people.

10. Can the inscription on the tablet be seen from a distance?

Given the height of the Statue of Liberty, the inscription on the tablet is not easily visible from a distance. It is meant to be appreciated up close, either through binoculars or by visiting the replicas of the tablet that are displayed for public viewing.

11. Are there any other significant symbols on the tablet?

Apart from the date, the Statue of Liberty’s tablet also features several other symbols. These symbols include a book, representing knowledge and law, and a torch, symbolizing enlightenment and freedom. These symbols further reinforce the ideals and values associated with the statue.

12. How many replicas of the Statue of Liberty’s tablet exist?

There are numerous replicas of the Statue of Liberty’s tablet located across the United States and in various parts of the world. These replicas serve as smaller-scale representations of the original statue and its symbolism, allowing people who may not be able to visit New York City to experience a bit of American history.