More than just a collection of faces carved into a mountainside, Mount Rushmore National Memorial in South Dakota stands as a symbolic cornerstone of American culture, drawing millions of visitors annually. Yet, beneath the watchful eyes of these presidential effigies lies a narrative rich with evolving interpretations of history, art, democracy, and patriotism.
In 2020, President Donald Trump’s speech at Mount Rushmore prompted author Matthew Davis to dive deeper into these themes. His exploration culminated in the book A Biography of a Mountain: The Making and Meaning of Mount Rushmore, offering a refreshing look at a monument that continues to captivate and stir dialogue nationwide.
Matthew Davis
Davis returned to South Dakota, the heartland of this monumental landmark, for the launch of his book. During his visit, he sat down with SDPB’s Lori Walsh to delve into the complexities of the monument they’ve both known yet reinvented throughout their careers.
“Mount Rushmore isn’t just a frozen depiction of four leaders,” Davis explained, “it’s a living cultural text that continuously reflects and shapes our national identity. Every year, over two million people come, and each brings their own interpretation and legacy.”
South Dakota, often characterized by its sweeping prairies and rich native heritage, holds Mount Rushmore with a dual sense of pride and reflection. Locals, aware of the monument’s controversial roots, balance the historical narratives told by the carved presidents with the stories rooted in the land’s original custodians, the Lakota Sioux.
Interpretations Over Time
As America changes, so too does Mount Rushmore’s role within the national dialogue. Initially conceived as a tourist draw, Gutzon Borglum’s ambitious creation has grown into a multifaceted emblem. From classroom history lessons to political rallies and cultural debates, this stone tableau has evolved through countless lenses.
According to Davis, “What was once a celebration of democracy and unity can sometimes be viewed as a depiction of conquest and controversy. The sculptures invite us to engage with our history in constructive, sometimes difficult, conversations.”
SDPB
Such discussions can be felt strongly in Custer State Park, where locals and tourists mingle with stories of pioneer perseverance alongside sobering reminders of indigenous displacement. These dichotomies add layers of depth to the reasons more than two million people from around the world make the pilgrimage to Mount Rushmore each year.
The Making and Meanings
Davis’ book, A Biography of a Mountain: The Making and Meaning of Mount Rushmore, goes beyond the granite facade to fully explore this tapestry of narratives. In addressing the artistic endeavor, Davis examines Borglum’s vision and the subsequent layers of meaning attributed to it throughout the 20th and 21st centuries.
The book also interrogates Mount Rushmore’s portrayal in political discourse, from bygone eras to the events of July 2020, when Trump’s speech spotlighted the monument amidst a backdrop of national turmoil and introspection. This context provides a rich bedrock for discussions on democracy and the varied interpretations of American patriotism.
South Dakota’s Legacy
South Dakota’s identity is interwoven with such landmarks and their stories. Mount Rushmore serves as a testament to both the state’s natural beauty and its complex history. The state’s residents understand the pull the iconic site has, its power to evoke awe and prompt debate.
Looking forward, South Dakotans are eager to share their corner of the American story with those who visit, ensuring that Mount Rushmore and its evolving interpretations continue to enrich and challenge understanding for generations to come.
Conclusion
Matthew Davis’ insightful work is a reminder of the enduring relevance of national symbols and their power to serve as catalysts for broader conversations about American values and history. As interest and reflection continue to grow around Mount Rushmore, South Dakota remains at the heart of these discussions, offering its unique perspective amid an evolving tapestry of interpretations.
Through books like Davis’, and the ongoing dialogue they inspire, South Dakota and its cherished monument strive to engage the nation in ongoing conversations about identity and legacy.