The first face that many late 19th and early 20th century immigrants to the United States saw upon entering her waters was that of the Statue of Liberty. Her solemn eyes and iconic countenance promises the hope of a new life for those leaving one of despair. As America welcomed the tired, the poor, and the huddled masses, our Lady Liberty, graciously given by the French over 120 years ago, has raised her torch as a beacon of hope for those New York bound passengers.
Formally called Liberty Enlightening the World, this world-renown statue has been a symbol of freedom throughout the world. And for millions of immigrants, she represented their new home, one filled with possibilities and yet, at the same time, fraught with anxiety. Many came penniless, or nearly so, hungry, and beaten down, longing for change and hoping upon hope that their tomorrows in this new land would outshine their yesterdays.
This post was written by bullets on July 8, 2008
