How Mount Rushmore Came to Be and Why It’s So Controversial

Matthew M

Carved into the Black Hills of South Dakota, Mount Rushmore is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the United States. Featuring the faces of four American presidents—George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln—the monument is a tribute to the nation’s history and leadership.

While it represents American progress and patriotism, its construction and location have also sparked cultural and historical debates, particularly regarding its impact on Indigenous communities. From its conception in the early 20th century to its lasting legacy today, Mount Rushmore remains a powerful, complex symbol of America’s past.

The Vision and Construction of Mount Rushmore

Before the Sculpture, National Park Service photo, Public Domain/Wikimedia Commons

The Idea Behind the Monument

Mount Rushmore was the brainchild of South Dakota historian Doane Robinson, who wanted to create a monument that would attract tourists to the state. He originally envisioned carvings of Wild West figures, but sculptor Gutzon Borglum proposed a grander idea—depicting U.S. presidents to reflect the nation’s birth, growth, development, and preservation.

The Engineering and Carving Process

Construction began in 1927 and continued for 14 years. The massive project required the removal of nearly 450,000 tons of rock, primarily using dynamite. Borglum and his team of over 400 workers carefully refined the features of each president with chisels and jackhammers. Despite financial struggles and Borglum’s unexpected death in 1941, his son Lincoln Borglum oversaw the final stages, completing the monument later that year.

The Cultural and Historical Significance

National Park Service photo, Public Domain/Wikimedia Commons

Symbolism of the Four Presidents

Each president chosen for Mount Rushmore represents a key chapter in American history:

George Washington symbolizes the birth of the nation.
Thomas Jefferson represents the expansion of the U.S. through the Louisiana Purchase.
Theodore Roosevelt reflects economic development and the role of conservation.
Abraham Lincoln stands for the preservation of the Union during the Civil War.

The Controversy Surrounding Mount Rushmore

While Mount Rushmore is a proud emblem for many Americans, it has also been a source of controversy, particularly among Native American tribes. The Black Hills were sacred lands to the Lakota Sioux, who were promised the territory through treaties in the 19th century. However, the land was seized by the U.S. government after the discovery of gold. To many Indigenous groups, the monument is a reminder of broken treaties and lost land, leading to ongoing debates about its cultural impact.

Mount Rushmore’s Role in American Identity

Thomas Wolf, CC BY-SA 3.0/Wikimedia Commons

A Major Tourist Attraction

Since its completion, Mount Rushmore has drawn millions of visitors each year, solidifying its place as a major tourist destination. It plays a significant role in American patriotism, serving as a backdrop for political speeches, celebrations, and historical reflections.

Influence in Popular Culture

The monument has been widely featured in films, literature, and political discourse. One of its most famous appearances was in Alfred Hitchcock’s 1959 thriller North by Northwest, which cemented its status as a cinematic icon. Mount Rushmore’s imagery has also been used in advertising, artwork, and social commentary, reflecting its deep-rooted significance in American culture.

The Legacy of Mount Rushmore Today

Preservation Efforts and Public Interpretation

Maintaining Mount Rushmore remains a priority for the National Park Service, which oversees ongoing conservation efforts to protect the monument from natural erosion. The site also includes museums and educational programs that discuss both its artistic achievements and the historical tensions surrounding its creation.

Ongoing Discussions and Future Perspectives

Mount Rushmore continues to be a subject of discussion regarding its historical context and representation. While it stands as a tribute to American resilience and leadership, it also serves as a reminder of the complex narratives in U.S. history, especially concerning Indigenous rights.