The Sculptural Story behind Mount Rushmore: Design and Selection of Presidents
Mount Rushmore, located in the heart of South Dakota, is a colossal sculpture carved into the granite faces of four American presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. This monumental work of art, commissioned by Gutzon Borglum, was designed to symbolize the enduring history and ideals of the United States. The project began in 1927 and its completion in 1941 marked a significant milestone in American history.
Who Designed Mount Rushmore?
The ambitious project of Mount Rushmore was the brainchild of sculptor Gutzon Borglum. Born in 1867 and American, Borglum was known for his grand vision and innovative approach to monumental sculpture. Borglum's inspiration for Mount Rushmore came from a desire to create a lasting tribute to the nation's founding figures and significant moments in American history.
Why Were These Presidents Chosen?
Each of the four presidents selected for Mount Rushmore played a pivotal role in the establishment, expansion, preservation, and unification of the United States.
George Washington
As the first president and one of the founding fathers of the United States, George Washington was chosen to symbolize the birth of the nation. He is celebrated for leading the nation to independence and establishing important protocols for the new government. Washington's leadership during the American Revolution and his administration laid the foundation for the United States as we know it today.
Thomas Jefferson
Thomas Jefferson, the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, was instrumental in promoting the ideals of democracy and individual rights. He also oversaw the Louisiana Purchase, which nearly doubled the size of the United States. Jefferson's vision for the nation extended beyond just liberty; he envisioned a broad and diverse nation capable of fostering progress and inclusivity.
Theodore Roosevelt
Known for his progressive policies and the construction of the Panama Canal, Theodore Roosevelt symbolized the nation's development and assertive foreign policy in the early 20th century. His adventurous spirit and advocacy for conservation made him a notable figure in American history. Roosevelt's vision for the future of the nation included both domestic and international developments, reflecting a dynamic and evolving society.
Abraham Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln is revered for his leadership during the Civil War and his efforts to abolish slavery. Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation and other abolitionist efforts ensured the survival of the Union. His presidency marks a critical period in American history, symbolizing the nation's ongoing struggle for freedom and equality.
Gutzon Borglum's Vision
Borglum's selection of these presidents was influenced by their significant contributions to the founding, expansion, preservation, and unification of the United States. He stated, 'they embodied the founding, expansion, preservation, and unification of the United States.' His project aimed to capture the essence of these historical figures and their contributions, making them symbols of American ideals and values.
Borglum faced some pressure to include other figures, such as Susan B. Anthony, but ultimately decided against it. He believed that the first 150 years of American history were the most critical and significant. Each president chosen represented a key chapter in the nation's development, from the birth of the nation to its preservation and growth.
The Legacy of Mount Rushmore
Mount Rushmore is not just a monument; it is a living testament to the enduring spirit of the American people. The project's completion in 1941, despite numerous challenges, including Borglum's untimely death, is a testament to the vision and determination of those who labored on the mountain. Today, Mount Rushmore continues to inspire visitors from around the world, reminding them of the nation's rich history and the enduring pursuit of democracy and freedom.
Gutzon Borglum, as both the designer and sculptor, infused Mount Rushmore with a sense of grandeur and awe. His expertise and passion created a lasting tribute to the nation's greatest figures, ensuring that their stories and legacies would be remembered for generations to come.