Why should Mount Rushmore be regarded as a Wonder of the World?: a proposal
In this proposal we intend to assess the importance of including Mount Rushmore within the classification of the most relevant worldwide monuments. Therefore, we will go on to distinguish the reasons why it should be in this categorisation, as well as the different details that make this monument emblematic and conclude by making some suggestions to promote its nomination.
The results of a survey conducted among millions of Internet users reveal that Mount Rushmore should be considered as a Wonder of the World. The main arguments given for that being possible were, on the one hand, because of the fact that it stands out the democracy of the United States. On the other hand, it contributes to the enhancement of South Dakota’s economy and, finally, it constitutes a symbolic monument with which the country is identified.
With regard to its historical value, this memorial was created by Gutzon Borglum as a symbol of the foundation, growth, preservation and unification of the United States.
Thus, huge statues of the four presidents were started to be built in the fourth of October 1927 in the Black Hills of South Dakota, located in the North of the US. To be more specific, in 1923, Doane Robinson, the State Historian of that nation, read of the Stone Mountain, placed in Georgia, in which Borglum took part and contacted him so that Mount Rushmore could be designed. Moreover, the original objective of building the sculptures was to attract people from all over the world to South Dakota, this is, to increase its tourism.
In addition, all the cultures that form the basis and ideals of the US are reflected in this monument. This is why each president carved in the sculpture typifies some features which are viewed as significant for the country. For example, George Washington represents the origin of the United States, since it was the first President.
Thomas Jefferson shows its expansion due to his participation in the writing of the Declaration of Independence.
Theodore Roosevelt expresses the development thanks to his progressive ideas for carrying out some reforms in the 20th century.
Lastly, Abraham Lincoln shows the conservation of the country, eradicating slavery and maintaining the population unified.
In the light of the factors mentioned, we would suggest the following:
- It's appearance in numerous films, North by Northwest, for instance, as well as the modification of the Independence Day to one day before, in order to avoid conflicts with the neighbour communities, bring about that it is worldwide recognisable. Consequently, it heightens the need of being considered a Wonder of the World.
- As for its cultural distinction, over the decades, Mount Rushmore has become famous as a symbol of America, instilling people from all nationalities and backgrounds aspects such as hope and freedom. Therefore, if it was included in the nomination list, those values would be globally expanded.
All in all, the designation of Mount Rushmore as a Wonder of the World would appear to be the most viable option.