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If you're headed for the National Mall in Washington, D.C., don't count on finding any great sales. What you will find are some of the most famous structures in the United
States, including the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, the White House, and the U.S. Capitol.
So why are these structures so important? Well, to begin with, each is an amazing accomplishment. All of the engineers, architects, and builders who created these structures had to overcome incredible obstacles to get them built. Also, each memorial and building represents an important part of U.S. history. For years, Americans have been exercising their right to "freedom of expression" by holding demonstrations, marches, and vigils by them.
Take, for instance, the Lincoln Memorial. You've seen it: It's pictured on the backs of millions of pennies. The memorial honors President Abraham Lincoln and his effort to save the Union during the Civil War. The structure, which is huge, was built to look like the Parthenon, in Athens. In the middle of it sits a 19-foot statue of Lincoln that weighs 175 tons. This memorial symbolizes Lincoln's belief that all people should be free, which is why it's been a favorite gathering place for anti-war and civil rights protesters over the years.
Now here's a pop quiz: Which structure on the National Mall offers the best view of the city of Washington? Give up? It's the Washington Monument—built in honor of America's first president, George Washington. At 555 feet, this obelisk is one of the tallest pieces of freestanding masonry in the world. But what's really amazing about this structure is that there is no cement holding the loose granite blocks together, yet it's capable of withstanding a 145 mi/h tornado!
And finally, why are so many structures in Washington famous? In part, it's because we see them everywhere—in the movies, on TV, and even on money. So here's a parting question for you: On which denominations of U.S. paper currency can you find pictures of the Lincoln Memorial, the White House, and the U.S. Capitol? Don't bother reaching into your wallets. Here's the answer: The Lincoln Memorial is on the $5 bill, the White House is on the $20, and the U.S. Capitol is on the $50.
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