The most important highlight of the enormous Library of Congress is the original copy of the Declaration of Independence from the clutches of British colonialists. Such a vital source of history is valuably preserved here and is put to display. It was signed on the 4th July of 1776. Grand celebrations are seen in America on the 4th of July each year to celebrate their final victory.
The highly influential Second Inaugural Address put forth to the citizens by the then Prime Minister of America, Mr Abraham Lincoln made a huge impact in everyone’s heart. It was in this address he highlighted the core cause behind the Civil War and how he hoped for a brighter future for America. A handwritten copy of this legendary address can be found in this library. He encouraged people to maintain a sense of oneness and unity. This speech of his was delivered in the year 1865 and is marked as one of the most eloquent speeches in history.
The printing of the Gutenberg Bible was truly a turning point for the printing industry. This was done by Johannes Gutenberg whose one move brought about a remarkable change. After this, the budding of plentiful printing shops occurred. Books were far more easily accessible and within the reach of a major population. One of the three of the Gutenberg Bible which was printed on vellum is housed carefully in the Library of Congress.
This library is a perfect place that stores the rich cultural and historical heritage of America. It has legendary manuscripts and photographs. Stories, art, and music created by the talented people of the country have been carefully preserved here as they perfectly showcase the fine American culture.
The Geography and Map section has a compilation of rare maps which can hardly be found anywhere. It has got maps where the term “America” was labelled for the first time.
There is a section named The Prints and Photographs Divisions. It has been dedicated to storing pieces of a few of the most talented photographers to exist. Work of globally renowned artists’ like Dorothea Lange and Ansel Adams are showcased in this section of the library. It is astonishing how the library has not restricted itself to books and manuscripts only. The presence of innumerable priceless resources is a clear reflection of tremendous efforts that have been taken to cautiously nurture and preserve the diversity of America’s history and talent.
