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Maurice Koechlin and Emile Nouguier submit the tower design to Alexandre Gustave Eiffel. The tower would be a centerpiece for the l'Exposition Universelle de 1889 which would celebrate the centennial of the French Revolution. -
History of the Eiffel Tower from its origins to 1944. Sources:
https://www.toureiffel.paris/en/the-monument/history
https://www.merveilles-du-monde.com/Tour-Eiffel/Chronologie-des-evenements-de-la-tour-Eiffel.php
https://www.merveilles-du-monde.com/Tour-Eiffel/Histoire-de-la-tour-Eiffel.php
http://wikipedia.com -
Eiffel purchased the rights to the design's patent -
A commission was formed to study the projects submitted and a budget was given. During this time, artists protested the proposed tower. -
The commission signed a contract with Eiffel, granting him 1.5 million francs for the construction and commercial exploitation of the tower for 20 years. -
Construction began on the foundation of the tower. -
Work on the metalic structure is completed. -
L'exposition universelle opens in Paris, giving visitors a chance to see and, later, climb the tower.
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The public is allowed to climb the tower stairs. Almost 30,000 people visit the first week. -
Two elevators open for public use, making it easier for the public to climb the tower. The elevators would need to be replaced in ten years. -
During the World War I, a radio transmitter is placed in tower, helping the Allied Victory -
During the German occupation of Paris, the Germans hoist a flag on the tower, claiming it as their own. -
When Paris is liberated, two men replace the German flag with the Tricoulour (the French flag).