The Political Battle Over Mount Rushmore’s Fifth Face: A Decade-Long Controversy

The renowned monument of Mount Rushmore, carved with the faces of four former U.S. presidents, has become a symbol of American democracy and historical celebration. However, the idea to add a fifth face to this iconic landmark has been a topic of intense debate and political maneuvering for over a decade. This article delves into the reasons behind the ongoing political disagreements, the criteria for selecting a new figure, and the challenges posed by the monument's instability.

Background: The Reasons for the Controversy

Mount Rushmore National Memorial was completed in 1941, with the faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln carved onto the granite cliffs. The monument serves as a tribute to the first four presidents, representing their key roles in forming the foundation of the United States. However, the possibility of adding a fifth face to the monument has sparked heated debates among historians, politicians, and the public.

The primary reason for the controversy is the instability of the mount. The monument is carved into a hard granite rock face, which makes any additional carving extremely difficult and potentially dangerous. Engineers and preservationists have extensively studied the rock face and concluded that adding another face would compromise the structural integrity of the monument. This has led to a focus on the political and symbolic aspects of the fifth face, rather than the technical feasibility.

Political Debates: Who Should Be Added?

Any decision to add a fifth face to Mount Rushmore involves a complex layer of politics. The choice of who would be depicted has become a political battlefield, with various groups and factions vying for their preferred candidate to be included. The debate revolves around figures who have contributed significantly to American history, but also fits within the context of remembrance and celebration at Mount Rushmore.

One of the most prominent candidates mentioned for a fifth face is Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR). Roosevelt, the 32nd President of the United States, is admired for his leadership during the Great Depression and World War II. However, FDR's eligibility raises questions about the timeline of his presidency. Roosevelt served four terms as president, which ended in 1945. While he is a significant historical figure, the possibility of including him may shift the focus from the formative years of the United States to more contemporary historical events.

Other notable figures suggested for the fifth face include:

Women in History: Including a female figure would address the imbalance of the current composition and recognize the contributions of women to the country's history. Figures like Susan B. Anthony or Eleanor Roosevelt have been proposed. Reformers: Political reformers like Martin Luther King Jr., whose fight against racial discrimination and advocacy for civil rights could be celebrated. Scientific and Technological Leaders: Considering the advancements in technology and science, figures like Benjamin Franklin or Thomas Edison could be considered.

Challenges and Considerations

The decision to add a fifth face to Mount Rushmore is not only a matter of politics but also involves numerous logistical and technical challenges. The preservation of the monument is paramount, and any decision to alter it would need to be carefully evaluated to ensure the integrity of the existing faces. The cultural significance of Mount Rushmore also means that changing the monument could have profound symbolic and cultural implications.

Furthermore, the idea of adding a fifth face raises questions about the democratic process. Who gets to decide, and how should the process be structured? Should there be a national referendum, or should it be left to a committee of historians and experts?

The cost of such an endeavor is also a significant factor. Basing the decision on political and historical significance alone may not be enough to justify the financial investment, especially when the monument's current preservation efforts require substantial resources.

Conclusion: A Call for Inclusivity and Sensitivity

The controversy surrounding the addition of a fifth face to Mount Rushmore highlights the ongoing efforts to balance historical remembrance with contemporary issues of inclusivity and sensitivity. As the nation continues to evolve, so too must our collective historical narratives. The decision to add a fifth face should be approached with careful consideration, ensuring that it reflects the diverse history and values of the United States.

Ultimately, the deliberation over Mount Rushmore's fifth face serves as a reminder that historical monuments are not static exclusively symbols. They are living entities that reflect the changing dynamics of American society. By carefully navigating the political, cultural, and technical challenges, the decision to add a fifth face could breathe new life into a timeless symbol of American democracy and history.