Surprising Facts About Mount Rushmore

Mount Rushmore began as the vision of Doane Robinson, South Dakota's State Historian, who was initially inspired by the Confederate leaders' carvings at Stone Mountain in Georgia. He imagined a similar monument in the Black Hills' Needles Region. However, three major hurdles halted his original plans: opposition from Native American groups, environmental concerns, and the unsuitable fragility of the local rock. This led to the selection of Mount Rushmore as the site, laying the groundwork for what would become a national treasure.

Gutzon Borglum designed Mount Rushmore to showcase the pivotal periods in U.S. history through the leaders who shaped them. Each president was selected to symbolise the birth, growth, preservation, and development of the United States. This artistic and symbolic choice highlights the enduring impact of these leaders and the moments they represent in the nation's collective memory.

While Doane Robinson conceived the idea for Mount Rushmore, it was sculptor Gutzon Borglum who brought the vision to life. Borglum, also linked to the Stone Mountain project, chose to immortalise four presidents who embodied key moments in American history. After Borglum's passing in March 1941, his son took over, applying the final touches that completed the monumental artwork that draws millions of visitors each year.

Abraham Lincoln represents the preservation of the Union during its most challenging period—the Civil War. His leadership during this time of deep division helped prevent the permanent fracture of the nation. Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation, which declared the freedom of all slaves in Confederate-held territory, is a cornerstone of his legacy, symbolising his commitment to liberty and equality.

Theodore Roosevelt's likeness on Mount Rushmore symbolises the era of rapid economic change and reform at the turn of the 20th century. Known for his robust approach to antitrust laws and his conservation efforts, Roosevelt was a staunch advocate for fair economic practices and the protection of the American landscape. His inclusion celebrates his contributions to domestic policy and environmental stewardship.

Mount Rushmore's story includes the intriguing tale of the Hall of Records, an envisioned repository for America's most important documents. Gutzon Borglum proposed this hall to be built behind the presidential faces, intending it to house historical documents like the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Though the project was started, it was left unfinished due to funding constraints and Borglum's death. Today, the incomplete hall remains a hidden aspect of the monument, hinting at what could have been a time capsule of American heritage.

The creation of Mount Rushmore was a feat of both artistry and engineering, involving the removal of over 450,000 tons of rock. Borglum and his team employed dynamite for the bulk of the carving, refining details with jackhammers and hand chisels. This innovative approach required precise control and a deep understanding of granite's properties, demonstrating a remarkable blend of creativity and technical prowess that transformed a rugged mountain face into a national landmark.

Over the years, Mount Rushmore has grown to symbolize more than just the faces it bears, it represents American ideals and controversies alike. It has been a site of civic gatherings and protests, reflecting the nation's complex relationship with its leaders and their legacies. The monument also stands on land that is sacred to the Lakota Sioux, adding layers of historical and cultural tension. Despite these complexities, Mount Rushmore continues to be an iconic representation of American history, attracting millions of visitors and provoking thought and discussion about the nation's past and future.

Selected for his pivotal role in the nation's founding, George Washington is a central figure at Mount Rushmore. Known as the "Father of Our Country," he led the Continental Army to victory over British rule and later presided over the drafting of the U.S. Constitution in Philadelphia. Washington's presidency set the precedents for the newly established United States, making his inclusion on Mount Rushmore a tribute to the dawn of American democracy.

Thomas Jefferson is celebrated on Mount Rushmore for his integral role in expanding the young nation. As the primary author of the Declaration of Independence and the orchestrator of the Louisiana Purchase, Jefferson significantly doubled the size of the country. His presidency, from 1801 to 1809, marked a period of vigorous expansion and exploration that shaped the future trajectory of the United States.