Final answer:
Some Americans opposed the construction of the Statue of Liberty due to concerns about competition from foreign workers, integration of other races, and the idea of empire building going against American democratic principles.
Step-by-step explanation:
Opposition to the Construction of the Statue of Liberty
While the Statue of Liberty is now seen as a symbol of freedom and hope, there were some Americans who were against its construction. The reasons for this opposition varied, but some of the main concerns include:
- Fear of competition from foreign workers: Some Americans felt that the construction of the statue would lead to an influx of immigrants who would compete for jobs, lowering wages and job opportunities for native-born Americans.
- Concerns about the integration of other races: There were those who believed that the assimilation of other races would negatively impact American society and culture.
- Concerns that empire building ran counter to American democratic principles: Some Americans opposed the idea of the United States building an empire and saw the construction of the statue as a symbol of expansionism.
It's important to note that while there was opposition, the construction of the Statue of Liberty went ahead and it has since become an iconic symbol of freedom and welcoming immigrants to the United States.