Give Me Your Poor Tired And Hungry Quote
The quote "Give me your poor, your tired, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free" is a famous line from "The New Colossus," a sonnet by American poet Emma Lazarus. It was written in 1883 and later inscribed on a bronze plaque at the base of the Statue of Liberty in 1903. The quote has come to symbolize the welcoming spirit of America towards immigrants and refugees from around the world.
The Meaning Behind the Quote
Emma Lazarus wrote "The New Colossus" as a tribute to the Statue of Liberty and its role as a beacon of hope for immigrants arriving in America. The poem describes the statue as a "mighty woman with a torch," who stands at the entrance to the country and welcomes all who come to its shores.
The line "Give me your poor, your tired, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free" is a call to action, urging other countries to send their most vulnerable citizens to America, where they will find freedom and opportunity. The phrase "huddled masses" refers to those who are crowded together, seeking refuge from oppression and poverty.
The History of the Quote
When "The New Colossus" was first published in 1883, it received little attention. However, in 1903, a bronze plaque was added to the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty, which included the final five lines of the poem, including the famous quote. The plaque was a gift from friends of Emma Lazarus, who had died in 1887 at the age of 38.
Over time, the quote has become synonymous with the Statue of Liberty and the American dream. It has been used to promote immigration and to advocate for the rights of refugees and asylum seekers.
The Relevance Today
Today, the quote "Give me your poor, your tired, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free" is more relevant than ever. Around the world, millions of people are displaced due to war, persecution, and natural disasters. They are seeking safety and a better life for themselves and their families, and America has traditionally been a place where they can find it.
However, in recent years, the United States has become less welcoming to immigrants and refugees. There have been efforts to restrict immigration and to build walls to keep people out. Despite this, many Americans still believe in the values that the Statue of Liberty and the quote represent.
The Legacy of the Quote
The quote "Give me your poor, your tired, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free" has become a part of American culture and history. It is a symbol of the country's values and its commitment to welcoming those in need. The Statue of Liberty and the inscription on its base are reminders of the country's past and its potential for the future.
Despite the challenges facing immigrants and refugees today, there are still many people who believe in the promise of America and the ideals that the country was founded upon. The quote "Give me your poor, your tired, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free" continues to inspire and guide those who seek a better life in America.