From the 1880s, Europe entered the industrial era. Engineers learned about metal construction and challenged themselves to build a 1,000-foot (300 m) tower. A pioneer in this field, Gustave Eiffel designed a 1,023 ft (312 m) tower built in 1889 and engraved 72 names of scientists on the frame of the first floor. The Eiffel Tower exalted the triumph of French genius and became a national symbol. Often used for political purposes, it is sometimes adorned with colors and symbols and becomes a medium for communication or diplomacy.