The Criteria Behind the Carvings of Mt. Rushmore: An In-Depth Analysis

Mt. Rushmore, a monumental sculpture on the granite faces of the Black Hills in South Dakota, has become a symbol of the United States. However, the original plans and the selection of the presidents carved on the monument are often overlooked. This article explores the criteria that shaped the final design and the subsequent decision process.

Initial Concepts and the Change of Plans

The original plan for the monument was very different from what we see today. According to The Carving of Mt. Rushmore by Rex Alan Smith, the initial concept was to carve the faces of Native American chiefs and leaders onto the mountain. These plans came to fruition in South Dakota, where the idea of creating a grand sculpture was initially conceived.

However, the course of the project changed under the direction of Gutzon Borglum, a prominent sculptor known for his work at the Stone Mountain Confederate Memorial in Georgia. Borglum redefined the purpose of the monument from honoring Native American leaders to presidents who made significant contributions to the nation. His vision was to create a monument that would stand the test of time and inspire future generations.

Gutzon Borglum's Vision and Rivalry

Borglum's idea did not come without its challenges. In fact, his work on the Stone Mountain Confederate Memorial with the Dixie United Memorial Association earned him a reputation that later influenced his selection for the Mt. Rushmore project. However, he had a falling out with the sponsors and ultimately demolished the work he had started, a move that further solidified his unique status as a sculptor of monumental figures.

It is important to note that the criteria for choosing the presidents to be carved on the monument were not officially established in a formal manner. Instead, the process was guided by Borglum's personal belief in the significance of certain historical figures to the country's development. He decided to honor presidents who he believed had made substantial contributions to the nation.

The Presidents of Mt. Rushmore

The four presidents chosen to be carved on Mt. Rushmore were George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. Each president represents a different era and a unique aspect of American history. Here's a brief overview:

George Washington - Leader of the American Revolution and the founding father of the United States. Thomas Jefferson - Author of the Declaration of Independence and third President of the United States, known for his contributions to democracy and the expansion of the nation. Theodore Roosevelt - 26th President of the United States, widely recognized for his passion for national parks and conservation. Abraham Lincoln - 16th President of the United States, known for his leadership during the Civil War and his role in abolishing slavery.

Each president was selected based not only on their historical importance but also on their alignment with Borglum's vision of elevating American ideals and values.

Conclusion

While there may not have been a formal set of criteria for the selection of the presidents carved on Mt. Rushmore, the project was deeply rooted in the personal beliefs of Gutzon Borglum. His goal was to create a monument that would stand the test of time and inspire future generations to uphold the values of the nation. The ultimate criteria for the project were thus guided by a commitment to honor the leaders who shaped the United States into the nation it is today.