Statue of Liberty Poem

The Statue of Liberty poem titled "The New Colossus" was written by Emma Lazarus in 1883 as part of a fund raising effort to raise money for the pedestal that the Statue of Liberty stands on. The Statue of Liberty quote "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free" comes from this famous poem, and has been used throughout the years as an example of America's welcoming spirit.

You can watch this video to hear a beautiful reading of this poem.

Although many people think that the New Colossus poem is inscribed on the tablet that she holds, the poem is actually found on a tablet at the base of the statue, in the pedestal. The Statue of Liberty inscription on the tablet that she holds reads "July IV, MDCCLXXVI". This date, in Roman numerals is the date that the Declaration of Independence was signed.

Fun Fact: The engraving of the poem
- "The New Colossus" at the Statue of Liberty
includes a typographical error.

The line "Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!"
is missing the comma after "Keep",
which changes the meaning of the sentence.

The Statue of Liberty Poem

The New Colossus by Emma Lazarus

Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame,
With conquering limbs astride from land to land;
Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand
A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame
Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name
Mother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand
Glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command
The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame.
"Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!" cries she
With silent lips. "Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"

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To learn some Statue of Liberty facts click here

There is a fun pop song from History Tunes begins with this beautiful poem. It's available for purchase on iTunes - Here to Amerika - The U.S. History Songbook

The Statue of Liberty Pictures

There are many beautiful photos and graphics of the Statue of Liberty. Here are just a few Statue of Liberty pics and prints that you might enjoy, including one old photograph during construction.