The Lincoln Memorial

Washington DC is more than just the capitol of our nation, it is also a testament to the many great leaders that have helped to guide us through our often turbulent history. One of the most important presidents in the history of our country was Abraham Lincoln, the Lincoln Memorial was built as a testament to his accomplishments. Located on the National Mall, the Lincoln Memorial was built beginning in 1914 and is most well known for the 19 foot tall statue of Abraham Lincoln. Although the Lincoln Memorial is not the only memorial built in honor of Lincoln it is the most famous. There were other memorials built prior to it, but a public demand for a more prestigious memorial honoring Lincoln culminated in the approval of a $300,000 budget to build what is today known as the Lincoln Memorial. Standing high above the Potomac River, and renowned for its beautiful Greek style architecture and symbolism, the Lincoln Memorial is one of the most easily recognizable landmarks in the country.

Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln was the sixteenth President of the United States. He held office during what is perhaps the most turbulent time in the history of our nation, the Civil War. Under Lincoln’s leadership the Union was victorious, and slavery was abolished. Rather than punish the South for their actions during the Civil War, Lincoln hoped that by reaching out to them he could help facilitate the healing process. His unique approach and great wisdom helped to preserve the Union and ultimately led to a stronger nation. Sadly Lincoln was assassinated before he could see his work completed. Despite his untimely death the groundwork he laid while in office helped to pave the way to the reunification of the country. In honor of all that a man often called the greatest president accomplished, the Lincoln Memorial was built. Anyone who visits Washington DC should take the time to visit the Lincoln Memorial. By standing before the giant statue of Lincoln you can pay tribute to a man that helped our country to become what it is today.

The Lincoln Memorial Monument was completed in 1920. However it was not revealed to the public until 1922. It was dedicated on Memorial Day, May 30, 1922. Many people argued that the grand design of the memorial was out of character for Abraham Lincoln, who was known as a quiet and humble man. An argument was made that a far simpler memorial be built with a log cabin as a proposed idea. Despite objections, the decision was made to go forward with construction and the Lincoln Memorial was built. In addition to featuring the towering statue of Abraham Lincoln, the Lincoln Memorial also has inscribed within it the Gettysburg Address. The historical significance of the Lincoln Memorial has helped to make it a symbol of civil rights. In 1963 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his famous “I had a Dream” speech to approximately 250,000 people from the front steps of the Lincoln Memorial. Today the Lincoln Memorial is a national icon; it is visited by approximately 7 million people each year. As a symbol of the man who ended slavery, the Lincoln Memorial continues to stand for justice and equality.

It has since served as an assembly place for numerous debates, and the site of famous speeches. The memorial is situated at the east end of the National Mall. The National Mall is in itself a historic DC attraction. This area was made a dream by the vision of Pierre (Peter) Charles L’Enfant, and was made a reality by the wisdom of president George Washington. Today the park remains a historical place of beauty. In the spring it is a true delight to the eye, with its colorful floral expressions. The majestic area is home to 2000 American Elm Trees, and 3000 Japanese cherry blossom trees. The grounds are manicured with a multitude of flowers. It is a breathtaking site in the spring.

The Lincoln Memorial serves as not only a reminder of all that Abraham Lincoln accomplished, but also of the dark days that he fought against. During the darkest days of our nation’s past one man held the Union together and helped to reunify the country and heal the hatred after the Civil War. The Lincoln Memorial is a testament to a great man and the changes that he helped to make to forge us into the nation that we are today. For those of us alive today it is too easy to forget the mistakes of the past. Many of us take for granted the liberties and way of life that we now enjoy. The truth is that the path to where we are now was not an easy one. It was marked with hard work and sacrifice. Helping to create the foundation of equality that our nation is now built upon is a man who ultimately gave his life for his work, Abraham Lincoln.

The Lincoln Memorial, National Mall, and the White House are only a few of Washington DC’s many attractions. If you have a chance to visit the area you will be amazed at the sites and historical atmosphere this city has to offer.

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