What is Mount Rushmore?
Mount Rushmore is a granite mountain located in the Black Hills region of South Dakota. It is famous for the four faces carved into the mountain representing the heads of former US Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. The monument attracts over two million visitors annually, making it one of the most popular tourist attractions in the United States.
The History of Mount Rushmore
Mount Rushmore was carved by sculptor Gutzon Borglum and his son Lincoln between 1927 and 1941. It was originally intended to be a tourist attraction to draw visitors to the Black Hills region, but it also served as a symbol of American democracy and values. The monument was dedicated in 1941 and has since become an iconic American landmark.
The Purpose of National Monuments
National monuments are areas of land or structures that are preserved by the government for their historic, cultural, or natural significance. They are protected by law and managed by government agencies to ensure their preservation for future generations. The purpose of national monuments is to safeguard valuable resources and landmarks that contribute to the nation’s heritage and identity.
Criteria for National Monuments
The criteria for national monuments include the historic, cultural, or natural significance of the area or structure, its scientific or educational value, and its potential for public enjoyment and recreation. National monuments must also demonstrate a need for preservation and protection, and they must be managed in a way that maintains their integrity and significance.
Does Mount Rushmore Meet the Criteria?
Mount Rushmore meets the criteria for national monuments based on its cultural and historic significance. It is a symbol of American democracy and values, and it represents the leadership of four iconic US Presidents. The monument also has significant educational value and serves as a popular destination for visitors to learn about US history and culture. It is also a popular site for public enjoyment and recreation.
Arguments for Mount Rushmore as a National Monument
The arguments for Mount Rushmore as a national monument include its cultural and historic significance, its educational value, and its popularity as a tourist attraction. By designating Mount Rushmore as a national monument, the government could ensure its preservation for future generations and provide additional resources for its management and maintenance.
Arguments Against Mount Rushmore as a National Monument
Critics of Mount Rushmore as a national monument argue that it is already well-preserved and managed, and that additional government intervention is unnecessary. Some also argue that the monument has a controversial history, as it was carved on land that is considered sacred to Native American tribes.
Mount Rushmore’s Current Status
Mount Rushmore is currently designated as a national memorial, which means it is managed by the National Park Service but does not have the same legal protections as a national monument. The monument is also subject to ongoing debates about its historic significance and cultural impact.
Alternatives for Mount Rushmore Recognition
If Mount Rushmore were not designated as a national monument, other options for recognition could include designating it as a UNESCO World Heritage site, or as a national historic landmark.
What Would Change if Mount Rushmore Became a National Monument?
If Mount Rushmore were designated as a national monument, its legal protections and management would be strengthened, and additional resources could be allocated for its preservation and public enjoyment. It could also potentially lead to increased tourism and economic benefits for the surrounding area.
Conclusion: The Future of Mount Rushmore
The future of Mount Rushmore is uncertain, as ongoing debates about its history and cultural impact persist. However, it is clear that the monument remains an important symbol of American democracy and values, and it will continue to attract visitors from around the world for generations to come.
References and Further Reading
- National Park Service. "Mount Rushmore National Memorial." Accessed April 18, 2021. https://www.nps.gov/moru/index.htm
- National Park Service. "National Monuments." Accessed April 18, 2021. https://www.nps.gov/subjects/legal/national-monuments.htm
- UNESCO. "World Heritage List." Accessed April 18, 2021. https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/
