Empire State Building: Check Who Built it, History and Significance

Discover the enduring legacy of the Empire State Building, a monumental 102-story skyscraper completed in 1931. This architectural marvel, once the world's tallest, symbolizes ambition and the American spirit. 

Ayukta Zisha
Jun 24, 2025, 06:30 EDT
Empire State Building
Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is much more than just a really tall building in New York City. It's a lasting symbol of ambition, strength, and the American spirit.

Finished in 1931, right in the middle of the Great Depression, this 102-story skyscraper was a daring project. It quickly became an architectural marvel for its time. For nearly 40 years, it was the tallest building in the world, reaching 1,454 feet if you include its antenna.

Its art deco design, rapid construction, and cultural presence have strengthened its place as one of the most recognized buildings globally. The Empire State Building is a world-famous symbol, not just a New York landmark. You will often see it in old films, such as King Kong, and it is famous for its different colors for big events. This is why it is a major part of the image of New York and is known by people around the world. This famous building shows amazing engineering skills and has a deep historical meaning. It stands as a shining example of never-ending progress and a proud symbol of what was achieved in the 20th century.

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Key Details 

Feature

Details

Name

Empire State Building

Location

350 Fifth Avenue, New York City, USA

Construction Start Date

March 17, 1930

Completion Date

May 1, 1931

Architectural Firm

Shreve, Lamb & Harmon

Developer

John J. Raskob and Pierre S. du Pont

Main Contractor

Starrett Brothers and Eken

Height (including antenna)

1,454 feet (443.2 meters)

Height (roof)

1,250 feet (381 meters)

Number of Floors

102

Construction Time

1 year and 45 days

Style

Art Deco

Observation Decks

86th and 102nd floors

Official Opening

May 1, 1931

Who Built the Empire State Building? 

Empire State Building Financer John J. Ruskob, Executive and Industrialist Pierre S. of former General Motors. It was built by a team led by Do Pont. The architectural design firm was created by Shreve, Lamb, and Hormon, known for their efficient and modern approach. A construction company, known for the speed and innovation of construction, was built by Starrat Brothers and Akain. Remarkably, the entire building was completed in only 1 year and 45 days record-breaking tricks at that time. More than 3,400 workers, including many migrants and seductive ironwork, were involved in construction. The project began on 17 March 1930, and the building was officially opened on 1 May 1931, the tallest in the world.

Historical Significance

Symbol of the American Dream: The building was constructed during the great depression, which offered a beacon of hope and thousands of jobs.

Engineering Marvel: At that time, it was the longest man-made structure in the world, standing at 102 stories.

Role of World War II: It served as a broadcast tower and observation point during the war.

Art Deco Heritage: This is a textbook example of Art Deco style, which is known for its smooth lines and industrial elegance

Interesting Facts

Construction Speed:  The building increased at an average rate of 4.5 stories per week.

Overview Deck: Located on the 86th and 102nd floors, they attract more than 4 million visitors annually.

Light: Its top is lit in different colors to respect holidays, events, and causes.

Aircraft Incident:  In 1945, a B-25 bomber accidentally crashed on the 79th floor due to fog, killing 14 people killed but the building remained structurally sound.

Leed Certification: It underwent a major energy efficiency retrofit and is now LEED Gold certified.


Ayukta Zisha
Ayukta Zisha

Content Writer

    Ayukta Zisha is a Content Writer and Published Author with a Master’s degree in English Literature. She also holds a certification in Digital Marketing from IIT Delhi. Deeply passionate about art, aesthetics, and literature, Ayukta brings a unique creative flair to her writing. A dedicated bibliophile, she continues to explore and share her love for words through engaging and insightful content. You can reach out to her at ayukta.jisha@jagrannewmedia.com

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