Why Are Native Americans Absent from Mount Rushmore? A Deep Dive
The iconic Mount Rushmore draws millions of visitors each year, but it raises questions about representation. Why are there no Native American figures depicted on this celebrated national memorial? This article delves into the history and reasoning behind this omission.
Public Land vs. Diversity
Mount Rushmore stands as a public monument dedicated to American presidents, with its faces carved into the mountain as a tribute to some of the nation's most revered leaders. However, the origins of the monument and its current representation have sparked debates regarding representation and inclusivity.
The Choice of Presidents
The sculptor, Gutzon Borglum, envisioned honoring the four greatest American presidents he could think of, a decision influenced by the time and context of the early 20th century. At the time, there were no notable Native American presidents, a reality that shaped the final selection.
Originally, the design only featured three presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Abraham Lincoln. However, the addition of Theodore Roosevelt became necessary due to the shifting shape of the rock surface. Borglum's primary goal was to ensure the sculpture had broad appeal and represented key figures in American history.
The Idea of Diversity
It's essential to understand that Mount Rushmore was not conceived as a diversity sculpture. Other monuments and artworks honoring American leaders do include figures from Native American and colonial backgrounds, but this was not the scope of Mount Rushmore. The artist's choice was driven by the cultural and historical context of the time.
Doane Robinson, the state historian who initially proposed the idea, had envisioned honoring figures such as Lewis and Clark, Oglala Lakota chief Red Cloud, and even Buffalo Bill Cody. However, Gutzon Borglum believed that a broader appeal was necessary, leading to the selection of the four presidents.
Other Considerations and Future Projects
While Mount Rushmore lacks Native American figures, there are ongoing efforts to address these concerns. A new monument, the carving of Crazy Horse, is in progress near Custer, South Dakota. This project has garnered significant attention and represents a step towards honoring Native American leaders.
The carving of Crazy Horse's face has been completed, marking a milestone in the project. This effort seeks to rectify the representation gap and highlight the contributions of Native American leaders.
Conclusion
The absence of Native American figures on Mount Rushmore reflects the historical and cultural context of the times in which it was created. However, the ongoing efforts to include these figures demonstrate a growing awareness and commitment to representation and diversity. Understanding these issues and the ongoing projects can provide insight into the progress being made towards a more inclusive interpretation of American history.