The Lincoln Memorial Washington D.C. Information

The Lincoln Memorial is one of the most iconic landmarks in Washington D.C., standing as a symbol of freedom and equality. Located on the western end of the National Mall, the Lincoln Memorial is a testament to the legacy of one of America’s greatest leaders, President Abraham Lincoln.

The idea of constructing a memorial in honor of Lincoln was first proposed in 1867, just two years after his assassination. However, it would be several decades before the memorial was actually built. In 1914, Congress authorized the creation of a Lincoln Memorial Commission to oversee the design and construction of the memorial. A nationwide competition was held to determine the design of the memorial, with architect Henry Bacon’s classical style ultimately being selected.

Construction of the Lincoln Memorial began in 1914, and the building was completed in 1922. The memorial stands 99 feet tall and is made of white marble from Colorado. The main chamber of the memorial features a larger-than-life statue of Lincoln seated in a chair, with inscriptions of two of his most famous speeches, the Gettysburg Address and his second inaugural address, engraved on the walls.

The Lincoln Memorial has served as a site for many important moments in American history. In 1939, singer Marian Anderson performed at the memorial after being denied the opportunity to perform at nearby Constitution Hall due to racial discrimination. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963.

Today, the Lincoln Memorial remains a popular tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors each year. It is open 24 hours a day, allowing visitors to experience its beauty and significance at any time. The memorial is also a popular site for events and protests, with individuals and groups often gathering on its steps to exercise their right to free speech.

Overall, the Lincoln Memorial stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Abraham Lincoln, a man who fought tirelessly to ensure that all Americans would be free and equal. It is a reminder of the importance of preserving our democracy and fighting for justice and equality for all.

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