Final answer:
Installed in 1886, the Statue of Liberty was originally brown and turned blue-green due to oxidation. It symbolizes freedom and hope for many immigrants coming to America.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Statue of Liberty was installed in New York Harbor in 1886. This magnificent statue has served as a beacon of hope and a symbol of freedom for millions of immigrants who arrived in the United States. When the statue was first erected, it was brown due to its pure copper exterior.
However, over time, the copper skin underwent a series of oxidation-reduction reactions leading to the formation of a blue-green patina that we see today. This color change is because the copper was oxidized to copper(I) oxide, and eventually to copper(II) oxide due to its exposure to the elements.
As expressed by President Cleveland during the unveiling, the Statue of Liberty is an enduring symbol of liberty, welcoming new arrivals and standing as a testament to the promise of America. Representing new freedoms and economic opportunities, it continues to be an iconic monument recognized worldwide.