Hoover Dam

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Ansel Adams - National Archives 79-AAB-01

Hoover Dam, once known as Boulder Dam, is a concrete arch-gravity dam in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River, on the border between the U.S. states of Nevada and Arizona. It was constructed between 1931 and 1936 during the Great Depression and was dedicated on September 30, 1935, by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Its construction was the result of a massive effort involving thousands of workers, and cost over one hundred lives. The dam was named in honor of President Herbert Hoover.

History

The idea of a dam built within the Black Canyon to help control floods, provide irrigation water, and produce hydroelectric power began in the early 20th century. The U.S. Congress authorized the project in 1928, and the first concrete was poured in 1931. Hoover Dam was at the time of completion the world's tallest dam and was an engineering marvel of its era.

Design and Construction

Hoover Dam is an arch-gravity type, which means it curves upstream in a narrowing curve that directs most of the water pressure against the canyon walls, leveraging the strength of the canyon itself to contain the reservoir. The dam is 726 feet (221 m) high and 1,244 feet (379 m) long, containing 3.25 million cubic yards (2.48 million cubic meters) of concrete.

Purpose and Function

The primary purposes of Hoover Dam are flood control, irrigation, and hydroelectric power generation. The dam's reservoir, Lake Mead, is the largest reservoir in the U.S. in terms of water capacity. Hoover Dam is a major tourist attraction, with nearly a million people visiting the dam each year.

Environmental Impact

The construction of Hoover Dam and the creation of Lake Mead led to significant environmental changes, including the displacement of communities and the alteration of natural habitats. However, it also contributed to the development of the Southwestern U.S. by providing a reliable water source and electricity.

Legacy

Hoover Dam remains an iconic symbol of American ingenuity and perseverance, with its construction overcoming numerous challenges. It played a crucial role in the development of the American Southwest, providing essential water and power resources that facilitated growth in the region.

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