May 1 in American History

May 1, 1931 — the Empire State Building opens

The tallest building in the world opened in New York City, built in just over a year at the depth of the Great Depression. President Hoover switched on its lights from Washington. A soaring monument to American ambition and engineering, thrown up by thousands of workers precisely when the country most needed to believe in itself.

Common Questions

What happened on May 1 in American history?

In 1931: the Empire State Building opens. The tallest building in the world opened in New York City, built in just over a year at the depth of the Great Depression.

Why is May 1 significant?

The tallest building in the world opened in New York City, built in just over a year at the depth of the Great Depression. President Hoover switched on its lights from Washington. A soaring monument to American ambition and engineering, thrown up by thousands of workers precisely when the country most needed to believe in itself.

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