A statue of George Washington in London symbolizes U.S.-U.K. ties, despite his disdain for Britain and its history.
London: In Trafalgar Square, there’s a unique statue of George Washington. It’s a bronze statue, and it’s quite the conversation starter. Washington, who disliked the British, stands proudly in front of the National Gallery.
So, why is this statue here? Washington led the American colonies to independence from Britain. In 1921, Virginia gifted this statue to the U.K. By then, the two countries had become friends again.
This statue represents the shared history between the U.S. and the U.K. But it’s a bit ironic. Trafalgar Square celebrates Britain’s naval victories, and Washington’s victory relied on the French Navy. It’s a strange mix of history.
Even more interesting, Washington’s statue isn’t on British soil. He promised never to step on British land again. So, they brought soil from Virginia to honor that vow.
Thousands of tourists pass by this statue daily. It’s one of 25 replicas made by Thomas Jefferson. The original is in Virginia’s State Capitol. The statue features symbols of authority, like 13 wooden rods, representing the original colonies.
Washington is one of six U.S. presidents honored in London. Statues of Lincoln, Roosevelt, Eisenhower, Kennedy, and Reagan also stand in the city. It’s a fascinating piece of history right in the heart of London.
