The need for the Eiffel Tower stemmed from many factors. 

Historical Context

In the late 19th century, France was experiencing rapid technological advancement and a surge of national pride. The country sought to showcase its industrial and engineering prowess to the world (Harriss 2004; Jonnes 2009). 

Design Competition

A competition was held to design a monument for the 1889 World's Fair entrance. Over 100 proposals were submitted, but the design by Gustave Eiffel, along with engineers Maurice Koechlin and Emile Nouguier, was ultimately selected (Jonnes 2009; Loyrette 1985). 

Architectural Innovation

The Eiffel Tower represented a departure from traditional architectural styles: 

• It demonstrated the potential of wrought iron as a building material, showing it could be as strong as stone while being much lighter (Harvie 2006). 

• The open-lattice design was revolutionary, utilizing 18,000 precisely engineered iron pieces joined by 2.5 million rivets (Jonnes 2009; Lemoine 1989). 

Technological Showcase

The tower was intended to demonstrate France's advanced engineering capabilities: 

• At 300 meters (984 feet) tall, it was designed to be the world's tallest structure at the time (Tissandier 1889; Barthes 1979). 

• It incorporated innovative construction techniques, including hydraulic jacks and steam-powered cranes (Lemoine 1989; Freyssinet 1954). 

Symbolic Significance

Beyond its practical purpose, the Eiffel Tower symbolized: 

• France's industrial might and technological advancement

• The spirit of progress and modernity

• National pride and the achievements of the French Republic (Harriss 2004; Barthes 1979; Jonnes 2009)

Scientific Purposes

While, not its primary purpose, the tower was also envisioned to serve various scientific functions: 

• As a platform for meteorological observations

• For aerodynamic experiments

• As a potential site for a radio transmitter (which later became one of its key functions) (Jonnes 2009; Jonnes 2009)

The Eiffel Tower emerged from a combination of national celebration, technological ambition, and the desire to create a lasting monument that would capture global imagination and showcase France's capabilities on the world stage (Harriss 2004; Jonnes 2009; Jonnes 2009).