Final answer:
The Eiffel Tower, constructed in 1889 by engineer Gustave Eiffel, required extensive planning with over 5,000 drawings and the efforts of both workers creating parts and those assembling it on site, using over 7,000 tons of iron. Amidst the Industrial Revolution's prosperity, the tower faced initial criticism but was later acknowledged as an architectural crown of Paris.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Eiffel Tower, a symbol of the primate city of Paris and an iconic architectural masterpiece, was constructed in 1889 by Gustave Eiffel, a prominent French engineer. After his design was selected, Eiffel and his team of engineers created over 5,000 drawings to prepare for the construction. Over 100 workers manufactured the parts, and another 130 assembled the 18,000 pieces on site. The entire structure required over 7,000 tons of iron to withstand wind forces, showcasing the superiority of metal over wood or stone in terms of resistance to movement.At the height of the Industrial Revolution, the Eiffel Tower was seen as a crown, reflecting the era's prosperity and advancements. Despite initial criticism from some renowned artists, Eiffel defended his design by comparing it to the grandeur of the pyramids, insisting it would be equally majestic in the Parisian landscape. By May 1888, when the second level was completed, Eiffel confidently showcased the tower to officials, which later became one of the most recognized structures in the world.