The Mount Rushmore National Memorial is one of America’s iconic symbols of history and patriotism. Carved into the granite cliffs of South Dakota’s Black Hills National Forest, the monument is home to the carved faces of four great American presidents – George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. It is a commemorative tribute to these historic figures who shaped America and influenced the world. In this article, we will explore the history, features, and significance of this legendary site.
A Brief History of Mount Rushmore National Memorial
Gutzon Borglum, a renowned sculptor, was commissioned in 1927 by the South Dakota State historian to create a memorial that would celebrate American history. Borglum traveled the world studying the art of sculpture and returned to the US to start carving Mount Rushmore in 1927. He chose the site because of its unique granite rock that was perfect for sculpturing and the surrounding scenic beauty of the Black Hills.
The monument was named after Mount Rushmore, a New York City lawyer who visited the area in the 1880s. The memorial was officially completed in 1941, although Borglum passed away in 1941 and the carving was finished by his son, Lincoln.
The Giant Faces
The most eye-catching features of Mount Rushmore are the giant carved faces of the four American presidents. Each of the faces is approximately 60 feet (18 meters) high and 20 feet (6 meters) wide. The heads of the presidents were selected for their contributions to the creation, growth and development of the United States.
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George Washington: The first face on Mount Rushmore is that of George Washington, the first President of the United States and the father of the nation. He is flanked by a series of flags that stand for the original thirteen American colonies.
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Thomas Jefferson: The second president on the monument is Thomas Jefferson. He is immortalized on the mountainside for his great contributions to the writing of the American Declaration of Independence in 1776, which declared the country’s right to self-rule.
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Theodore Roosevelt: A third president represented on the carving is Theodore Roosevelt, remembered for his love of nature and his advocacy for conservation. He was responsible for many efforts to protect America’s national parks and forests.
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Abraham Lincoln: And finally, the fourth and final face on Mount Rushmore is Abraham Lincoln, the president who led America through the Civil War and brought about the end of slavery. He is widely regarded as one of America’s greatest presidents.
The Sculptor’s Artistic Techniques
The sculptor, Gutzon Borglum, used a combination of science and art in carving the massive faces. He made sure to use the natural contours of the mountain to carve the details of the faces. Borglum and his team of workers drilled small holes in the rock and inserted dynamite sticks deep in them, which they detonated to carve the faces.
Throughout the process, there was a constant stream of water to lubricate the air and minimize dust. Tools like jackhammers, chisels and other specialized instruments were also used. Initially, each head was meant to be carved from head to waist, but the project was halted due to funding constraints, leaving the resulting monument with the four towering heads.
Significance of the Mount Rushmore Memorial
The Mount Rushmore Memorial occupies a significant place in American history and stands as a symbol of American values and patriotism. It has become a popular tourist attraction located in South Dakota, and welcomes millions of visitors each year.
In recent years, the monument has become more polarizing, as some view the site as a celebration of colonialism and white supremacy, while others see it as a reflection of American history and national pride.
Final Thoughts
The Mount Rushmore Memorial in South Dakota is a unique and powerful tribute to American history and patriotism. It is a perfect representation of America’s patriotism, freedom and bravery, reminding us of the great people who built and continue to shape our country. It has become a landmark of Western Civilization and a cultural icon, inspiring visitors to learn more about the history and values that help define America as a nation.