Whose face is on Mount Rushmore, is it Benjamin Franklin?

Who is on Mount Rushmore?

Mount Rushmore is a famous national monument located in the Black Hills region of South Dakota, USA. It is known for its giant sculptures of four American presidents – George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. These iconic faces are carved into the granite mountainside and have become a symbol of American history and patriotism.

The History of Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Mount Rushmore National Memorial was designed by sculptor Gutzon Borglum and his son Lincoln Borglum in the early 1920s. They wanted to create a monument that would celebrate American ideals and pay tribute to some of the country’s greatest leaders. The project began in 1927 and took 14 years to complete, with the final dedication ceremony taking place in 1941.

The Four Faces on Mount Rushmore

The four faces on Mount Rushmore are George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. These presidents were chosen for their significant contributions to American history and their leadership during critical times in the country’s development.

George Washington: The First Face on Mount Rushmore

George Washington was the first president of the United States and is often called the "Father of His Country". He led the American colonies to victory in the Revolutionary War and helped establish the new nation’s government. He also set many precedents for future presidents, such as the two-term limit and the tradition of addressing the nation in a State of the Union speech.

Thomas Jefferson: The Second Face on Mount Rushmore

Thomas Jefferson was the third president of the United States and is best known for writing the Declaration of Independence. He also played a significant role in expanding the country’s territory through the Louisiana Purchase and supporting public education.

Theodore Roosevelt: The Third Face on Mount Rushmore

Theodore Roosevelt was the 26th president of the United States and is often remembered for his progressive policies and conservation efforts. He established national parks and forests, regulated big business, and advocated for worker’s rights.

Abraham Lincoln: The Fourth Face on Mount Rushmore

Abraham Lincoln was the 16th president of the United States and is best known for his role in ending slavery and preserving the Union during the Civil War. He delivered famous speeches like the Gettysburg Address and the Emancipation Proclamation, and his leadership during one of America’s darkest periods has made him one of the most revered presidents in history.

Who Was Benjamin Franklin? A Short Biography

Benjamin Franklin was one of the Founding Fathers of the United States and played a significant role in American history. He was a writer, scientist, inventor, and politician, and his accomplishments include helping draft the Declaration of Independence, inventing the lightning rod and bifocal glasses, and serving as the first Postmaster General of the United States.

Was Benjamin Franklin’s Face Ever Considered for Mount Rushmore?

Despite his many contributions to American society, Benjamin Franklin’s face was never considered for inclusion on Mount Rushmore. The reasons for this are unclear, but it is likely that the selection committee felt that the four presidents chosen more closely represented the country’s history and values.

The Process of Selecting the Faces for Mount Rushmore

The process of selecting the faces for Mount Rushmore was a long and complex one, involving many different people and factors. Gutzon Borglum and his team considered several potential candidates, including presidents, explorers, and military leaders. Ultimately, they chose Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln because of their significant contributions to American history and their symbolic importance to the country.

Conclusion: The Faces on Mount Rushmore and Their Importance

The faces on Mount Rushmore are more than just giant sculptures – they represent the ideals and values that have shaped America into the country it is today. These four presidents played significant roles in American history, and their faces serve as a reminder of the sacrifices and accomplishments that have made America great.