Meaning: The quote refers to the process of creating the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, which is now known as the Gateway Arch National Park in St. Louis, Missouri. The memorial honors President Thomas Jefferson's vision for westward expansion in America. Following the Great Depression, there was a renewed sense of national pride and a desire to honor the country's history and its founding figures. This led to a nationwide public competition to determine the design for a memorial that would pay tribute to Jefferson's vision and the role of St. Louis in the westward expansion of the United States.

The Great Depression, which lasted from 1929 to the late 1930s, was a period of severe economic downturn in the United States and other countries around the world. The economic hardships and widespread unemployment during this time had a profound impact on the American people and led to a collective sense of resilience and determination to rebuild the nation. As the country emerged from the Great Depression, there was a renewed focus on celebrating American history and progress, which set the stage for the creation of the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial.

The memorial competition was a significant and ambitious undertaking that captured the public's imagination and engaged the creativity of architects and designers across the country. By inviting submissions from a wide range of participants, the competition aimed to find a design that would not only honor President Jefferson's vision but also serve as a lasting symbol of American ingenuity and progress.

The winning design for the memorial was submitted by Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen and his team. Their proposal, which featured a gleaming stainless steel arch soaring over the St. Louis skyline, captured the spirit of the nation's westward expansion and the pioneering vision of President Jefferson. The Gateway Arch, as it came to be known, stands at 630 feet tall and is the tallest man-made monument in the United States.

Dedicated in 1965, the Gateway Arch has since become an iconic symbol of St. Louis and a revered national monument. It stands as a testament to the boldness and ambition of America's early explorers and settlers, as well as a reminder of the enduring spirit of innovation and progress that defines the nation.

The Gateway Arch National Park, which encompasses the memorial and its surrounding grounds, welcomes millions of visitors each year. In addition to experiencing the awe-inspiring monument, visitors can explore the museum at the base of the arch, which provides insights into the history of westward expansion, the Lewis and Clark expedition, and the cultural significance of the St. Louis region.

In conclusion, the quote highlights the significance of the public competition and the subsequent design of the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, now known as the Gateway Arch. The memorial stands as a powerful symbol of American history, innovation, and the enduring spirit of westward expansion. It continues to inspire and educate visitors from around the world, serving as a living tribute to President Thomas Jefferson's vision and the nation's ongoing pursuit of progress and exploration.