When Liberty Island served as a military fort, it played a crucial role in defending the strategic entrance to New York Harbor. Originally known as Bedloe's Island, it was fortified in the early 19th century to safeguard the harbor from potential enemy incursions. The island's strategic location made it an ideal site for military installations, and it housed various defensive structures over the years, including Fort Wood, which was completed in 1811. During its time as a military fort, Fort Wood served as a key defense point during the War of 1812 and later became the pedestal for the Statue of Liberty. Its military significance gradually diminished, and by the late 19th century, the island's focus shifted towards becoming a symbol of freedom and democracy, culminating in the dedication of the Statue of Liberty in 1886.
