what do the columns of the lincoln memorial represent

The 36 exterior columns of the Lincoln Memorial represent the 36 states in the Union at the time of Lincolns death. The names and admission year of these states are engraved above the marble columns, and the years are shown in Roman numerals. The columns are also symbolic of the idea of a strong union, as the structure is physically held up by the columns, standing strong because all the columns are working together. Without each column, the building would fall, just as the nation would fall without all its states.