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When it was completed in 1937, the Golden Gate Bridge was the longest suspension bridge in the world. Now, while it no longer holds that title, the bridge is internationally recognised as one of the biggest visual icons of San Francisco and is a regular feature on postcards, souvenirs and many tourist photographs of the city.

The bridge was built to connect the city of San Francisco to Marin County in order to provide a far more convenient route of access than what had previously been most commonly used – boats and ferries. Due to San Francisco's poor links to its surrounding community, the city had been experiencing a slower expansion rate compared with other major cities and its economy was suffering as a result. Many people had suggested a bridge connecting the two major points a long time prior to the beginning of the Golden Gate Bridge, but it was generally held that building a bridge was not a viable plan as the Golden Gate – the body of water that forms the opening of San Francisco Bay into the Pacific Ocean – was comprised of turbulent waters, swirling currents, strong winds and a very deep centre that would make building exceedingly difficult. What's more, the area was prone to blinding fogs and terrible winds that would increase the dangers of attempting construction. However, in 1916, a former engineering student called James Wilkins proposed a bridge that he claimed would cost $100 million to build. This was not a practical fee, and when bridge engineer Joseph Strauss suggested that it could be done for a mere $17 million instead, more and more heads began to turn his way.

It wasn't easy, though. Strauss continued to gather support over the next ten years, but opposition came in thickly from many different sources.

In May 1924, though, things finally began to look up and the building of the bridge was approved. Architects and engineers were brought onto the scene and, in 1933, construction began.

The building of the bridge was difficult and dangerous and ten men lost their lives, though a further 19 that fell during work were caught by the net suspended beneath the work zones.

In 1937 the bridge was finally finished. Now still standing and as much in use as ever, the Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most popular tourist attractions for tourists staying in hotels in San Francisco and is well worth visiting.

It makes for an excellent photo opportunity and many tourists are stunned by its length, which was even more majestic at its time but still forms one of the most impressive sights today. Janine Barclay writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.

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