The Statue of Liberty, a monumental sculpture designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and dedicated to the ideals of freedom and democracy, was gifted to the United States by the people of France. It was constructed as a symbol of friendship between the two nations and celebrated their shared values. The statue was assembled in Paris before being disassembled for its journey across the Atlantic Ocean. On June 17, 1885, the statue's arrival in New York Harbor marked a significant moment in American history. It was transported aboard the French ship, Isère, which docked at Bedloe's Island, where the statue was to be permanently erected. Upon its arrival, a grand celebration ensued, with many New Yorkers eagerly awaiting to witness this magnificent gift.The setting of the statue on Bedloe's Island was strategic, as it would serve as a beacon of hope and freedom for immigrants arriving by sea. When the statue was completed, it stood at 305 feet from the base to the tip of the torch, making it an iconic representation of the American spirit. The design features a robed female figure, a broken chain at her feet, and a torch that illuminates the path to freedom, evoking the rich heritage of liberty from which the statue draws its inspiration. The initial reception included speeches, fireworks, and festivities, emphasizing the statue's importance.The dedication of the Statue of Liberty would take place over a year later, in October 1886. However, its arrival in New York Harbor marked a new era in which the statue became a symbol of hope, representing the United States’ commitment to liberty and the welcome extended to newcomers. This image of the statue would go on to shape America's national identity and the experience of millions of immigrants who saw her as a sign of opportunity.