How strong was the earthquake that cracked the Washington Monument?
How strong was the earthquake that cracked the Washington Monument? On Tuesday, August 23, 2011, a 5.8 magnitude earthquake, occurred 84 miles southwest of Washington, D.C., damaging the Washington Monument. The National Park Service has temporarily closed the Monument and is assessing the damage to it.
What are 5 facts about the Washington Monument?
- Plans for the monument began even before Washington was elected president. ...
- The original design for the monument was much different than what ended up being built. ...
- The monument was once the site of a hostage situation. ...
- The monument has survived an earthquake.
What was the worst earthquake in history of mankind?
The earthquake of May 22, 1960, that struck the town of Valdivia in southern Chile is the most powerful ever recorded and has become known as the Great Chilean Earthquake. It is thought to have measured 9.5 on the moment magnitude scale (MMS).
Why is the Washington Monument two?
The Washington Monument was constructed in two phases after laying the cornerstone in 1848. The color line shows where construction halted in 1856, when private donations to fund the Monument dried up.
Why is Washington Monument 2 colors?
The two sections closely resembled each other at first, but time, wind, rain, and erosion have caused the marble sections to weather differently, thereby producing the difference in color. A third type of marble is also visible at the dividing line between the two main phases of construction.
Why was the Washington Monument never finished?
However, after Washington became president, he scrapped the plans for his memorial, as federal government funds were tight and he didn't want to use public money for the project.
How much has the Washington Monument sunk?
“Whatever changes have occurred here would be much, much more subtle.” The monument sits about 15 to 20 feet above sea level and has sunk about 2 inches into the ground since it was completed in 1884.
What is the highest monument in the world?
The Statue of Unity, which depicts Indian politician and independence reformer Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, is now the highest in the world.