What Happened On March 31st?

On March 31st, 1889, Parisians prepared for a grand opening of a structure unlike anything ever seen before – the Eiffel Tower. This colossal iron latticework behemoth, designed by engineer Gustave Eiffel, was a marvel of engineering and a bold statement about French ingenuity. Towering over the city at a staggering 324 meters (1,063 feet), it was not only the tallest structure in the world at the time, but also a controversial addition to the Parisian skyline. It was not until 2010 that the Burj Khalifa was opened to the public, exceeding the French tower’s height by over 500 meters!

Who Was The Genius?

Gustave Eiffel, the mastermind behind the Eiffel Tower, was already a renown engineer by 1889. He had made his name designing innovative bridges and railway stations across Europe. However, the Eiffel Tower was a different beast altogether. Built as the centerpiece for the 1889 World’s Fair, the tower was actually met with criticism. Initially, many Parisians found that its industrial design clashed with the city’s classical architecture, deeming it as an eyesore!

However, the Eiffel Tower was an intricate work of art. Not just a giant metal sculpture, but Gustave’s work showcased French technological prowess. Furthermore, the tower’s innovative latticework design offered incredible strength and stability, allowing it to withstand strong winds and heavy loads.

Because of Thomas Edison’s recent development of the phonograph 20 years prior, the Eiffel Tower was able to house laboratories for scientific experiments along with radiotelegraph equipment for communication. More so, it even a luxurious restaurant at the second level!

In all, these functional aspects helped win over some of the tower’s initial detractors.

The Day That It Opened…

Now, the opening ceremony on March 31st was a grand affair. Officials, dignitaries, and excited Parisians gathered at the base of the tower, as the French flag was hoisted to the very top. Visitors, eager to experience the city from a whole new perspective, ascended the tower’s intricate network of stairs and elevators. From the observation decks, they were treated to breathtaking panoramic views of Paris, stretching for miles in every direction.

How It Eventually Grew On People

Despite its initial criticism, the Eiffel Tower quickly grew on the Parisians. Because of the stunning views it offered, coupled with its innovative design and functionality, public opinion quickly turned around. Originally intended to stand for only 20 years, the tower’s immense popularity secured its place in the Parisian landscape.

Gustave Eiffel actually had an apartment built at the very top of the tower, where he resided during construction and even hosted famous guests like Thomas Edison!

Again, because of the radiotelegraph equipment attached, the Eiffel Tower allowed for the development of early radio communication. Such height made it an ideal location for transmitting radio waves, contributing to the advancement of wireless technology.

Since its inception, the Eiffel Tower has been illuminated with thousands of lights, creating a mesmerizing spectacle at night. Edison’s Electric Company was also a contributing factor for these electric lights, as they were recently developed in 1882. The lights were initially powered by gas but were later converted to electricity, adding to the tower’s technological marvel.

Today, the Eiffel Tower stands as a beloved Parisian landmark, a symbol of progress, ingenuity, and the City of Lights itself. It has become a cherished backdrop for countless proposals, a romantic destination for couples, and a powerful image recognized around the globe. From its controversial beginnings to its iconic status, the story of the Eiffel Tower is a testament to human ambition and innovation!

What Did You Learn?

Have you ever been to the Eiffel Tower?

I went one time, and it was incredible! I was lucky enough to have lunch on the second level, and the views were really something else.

I hope that you learned something about the Eiffel Tower, Paris, or human innovation in general!

Thanks! See you in the next one!