How Were the Presidential Busts on Mount Rushmore Selected?

Mount Rushmore, a colossal granite sculpture carved into the Black Hills mountains in South Dakota, serves as a monumental tribute to four of America's most influential presidents. The busts of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt are not only iconic landmarks but also represent significant milestones in the nation's history. This article delves into the selection process, focusing on the figures carved into the mountain's face.

George Washington: The Father of the Nation

George Washington, the first President of the United States, played a pivotal role in the Revolutionary War and the formation of the new nation. His leadership during the war was crucial, and as the first President, he set important precedents for governance under the Constitution.

Thomas Jefferson: The Architect of the Declaration of Independence

Thomas Jefferson is celebrated for his role in drafting the Declaration of Independence, which was adopted in 1776. This document not only declared the colonies' independence from British rule but also established fundamental principles of democracy and freedom.

Abe Lincoln: The President Who Preserved the Union

Abraham Lincoln is remembered for his efforts to keep the United States united during the Civil War. His life, including his assassination, symbolizes the nation's struggle for unity and freedom. His leadership and the Emancipation Proclamation were transformative for the country.

The Fourth Choice: Theodore Roosevelt

While George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Abraham Lincoln were chosen for their historical significance and the impact they had on the nation, Theodore Roosevelt's selection is less apparent. However, he holds a special place in the sculptor Gutzon Borglum's heart.

Gutzon Borglum and Theodore Roosevelt

Gutzon Borglum, the sculptor behind Mount Rushmore, had a personal admiration for Theodore Roosevelt. Borglum was commissioned to create the monument and chose the presidents himself, adding Roosevelt as a tribute because of his personal hero status. Theodore Roosevelt was instrumental in securing the rights to the Panama Canal, a project that significantly advanced the nation's global interests.

Historical Contributions and Personal Impact

Borglum's artistic choices were not only influenced by the historical contributions of each president but also by their personal legacies. Each bust represents a moment of significant historical importance. George Washington's leadership during the Revolutionary War, Thomas Jefferson's role in drafting the Declaration of Independence, Abraham Lincoln's efforts to preserve the Union, and Theodore Roosevelt's achievements in securing the Panama Canal are all immortalized on the mountain.

A Contemporary Perspective

Although the monument's completion was funded by public sources, the selection of the sculpted figures was ultimately a personal decision made by Gutzon Borglum. The sculptor's vision aimed to capture the essence of each president and their contributions to American history. Today, visitors can stand in awe of these monumental figures, understanding the rich history and individual stories behind them.

Conclusion

The selection of the four presidential busts on Mount Rushmore reflects a blend of historical significance and personal admiration. George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt are not only icons of American history but also represent the diverse and enduring spirit of the nation. Their stories are carved into the mountainside, offering a lasting tribute to the leaders who shaped the United States.