Skip to main content

Developing the Empire State Building

Author:
Video Rating:
TV-PG
Video Duration:
2:40

When it was completed in 1931, New York's Empire State building was the world's tallest skyscraper. What was the driving force behind the design of this massive structure?

FACT CHECK: We strive for accuracy and fairness. But if you see something that doesn't look right, click here to contact us! HISTORY reviews and updates its content regularly to ensure it is complete and accurate.

RELATED CONTENT

The world-famous Empire State Building is a symbol of New York City and one of the world's most popular tourist attractions.

Deconstructing History: Empire State Building

In This Day In History video clip - May 1, 1931: Empire State Building dedicated - At the White House in Washington, D.C., President Herbert Hoover pushes a button that turns on the lights of New York City's Empire State Building, officially opening the tallest building erected to that date. Standing 102 stories, or 1,454 feet from the top of its lightning rod to its base at 34th Street and Fifth Avenue below, the skyscraper became a world-famous symbol of American ambition and still dominates the Manhattan skyline.

This Day in History: 05/01/1931 - Empire State Building dedicated

Building the Erie Canal

Alaska celebrates the long awaited grant of statehood with an enthusiastic celebration. It becomes America's forty-ninth state and, by far, the largest.

Alaska Becomes 49th State

After the Mexican-American War, the Mormon settlement of Deseret was claimed by the U.S. government.

A Mormon State

What was America's first capital city? The answer might surprise you.

Ask HISTORY: What was the first capital of the United States?