Who is the Fifth Face on Mount Rushmore? Exploring the Legends and Truths
Mount Rushmore, an iconic symbol of American history, stands tall in the Black Hills of South Dakota, showcasing the faces of four U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. These monumental carvings were designed to represent the birth, growth, development, and preservation of the United States. But over the years, whispers about a mysterious “fifth face” have circulated, piquing the curiosity of visitors and historians alike. Who is this elusive figure, and is there any truth to the legend?
Let’s explore the origins of Mount Rushmore, delve into the rumors of the “fifth face,” and uncover the facts behind one of the most captivating myths surrounding this famous monument.
The Creation of Mount Rushmore: A Symbol of American History
Mount Rushmore was the brainchild of sculptor Gutzon Borglum, who envisioned a massive tribute to the United States carved into the granite face of the Black Hills. Borglum selected four presidents he believed were instrumental in shaping the nation:
George Washington – The father of the nation, representing the birth of the United States.
Thomas Jefferson – The principal author of the Declaration of Independence and the man behind the Louisiana Purchase, representing the expansion of the country.
Theodore Roosevelt – The driving force behind America’s industrial growth and a champion of conservation, symbolizing the development of the nation.
Abraham Lincoln – The president who preserved the Union during the Civil War and ended slavery, representing the preservation of the United States.
Borglum began work on the monument in 1927, and although the project faced numerous challenges, it was finally completed in 1941, after his death. Today, Mount Rushmore is a beloved national landmark, attracting millions of visitors each year.
But amidst the admiration for the grand figures immortalized in stone, rumors of a “fifth face” have persisted, stirring intrigue and sparking debates.
The Myth of the Fifth Face on Mount Rushmore
So, where does the idea of a fifth face on Mount Rushmore come from? Over the years, several individuals have been proposed as worthy additions to the monument. These suggestions often reflect public sentiment at different historical points, representing figures who, like the original four presidents, made significant contributions to American life and ideals.
Crazy Horse: A Native American Legend
One of the most discussed candidates for the fifth face on Mount Rushmore is Crazy Horse, the legendary leader of the Oglala Lakota tribe. Crazy Horse is revered for his fierce resistance to U.S. expansion into Native American territories and his role in the Battle of Little Bighorn. Some have argued that adding Crazy Horse to Mount Rushmore would honor the Native American perspective and recognize the deep cultural and historical significance of the Black Hills to the Lakota people.
There is a separate monument dedicated to Crazy Horse in the Black Hills, just a short distance from Mount Rushmore. The Crazy Horse Memorial, which has been under construction since 1948, is a massive carving depicting Crazy Horse on horseback, pointing out toward his lands. When completed, it will be the largest mountain carving in the world.
Susan B. Anthony: A Suffrage Pioneer
Another name often mentioned in conversations about a potential fifth face is Susan B. Anthony, a key figure in the fight for women’s suffrage. Her work as a social reformer and women’s rights activist culminated in the passing of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote in 1920. Given the pivotal role Anthony played in advancing equality, her inclusion on Mount Rushmore would symbolize the strides made toward social justice and equality in America.
Martin Luther King Jr.: A Civil Rights Leader
Martin Luther King Jr., one of the most influential figures in the civil rights movement, is also frequently suggested as a potential fifth face on Mount Rushmore. His dedication to nonviolent protest and his leadership during the civil rights era changed the course of American history, leading to landmark legislation like the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. King’s legacy continues to inspire movements for justice and equality, and many believe that his presence on Mount Rushmore would represent the country’s ongoing journey toward racial equality.
Other Notable Figures
Other names floated over the years include John F. Kennedy, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and Ronald Reagan. These presidents, like the original four on Mount Rushmore, played significant roles in shaping modern America. However, none of these figures have been seriously considered for inclusion in the monument.
The “Unofficial” Fifth Face on Mount Rushmore: Ben Black Elk
While no new faces have been officially carved into Mount Rushmore, one individual has earned the unofficial title of the “fifth face.” Ben Black Elk, a Lakota Sioux elder and the son of famed medicine man Black Elk, spent nearly 30 years greeting visitors at the monument. Known as the “Ambassador of the Black Hills,” Black Elk shared stories about the land and its significance to the Lakota people.
Black Elk became a beloved figure at Mount Rushmore, posing for photos with tourists and providing a human connection to the sacred lands surrounding the monument. Though his face is not etched into the granite, his legacy as a symbol of cultural heritage and unity lives on.
Why Adding a fifth face on Mount Rushmore is Unlikely
While the notion of adding a fifth face to Mount Rushmore is compelling, several practical and historical factors make this highly unlikely.
Space Limitations: The mountain itself has limited space available for additional carvings. Carving a new face could compromise the structural integrity of the existing sculptures.
Historical Integrity: Mount Rushmore was designed to celebrate the four presidents selected by Gutzon Borglum. Any additions would alter the original intent of the monument, which was to highlight key figures from specific periods of U.S. history.
Preservation Concerns: Carving into the mountain could also cause damage to the natural landscape and the existing carvings. Preservation of the monument is a priority, and adding a new face could endanger its stability.
Conclusion: A Monument to History, Not to Change
Mount Rushmore stands as a monumental tribute to four pivotal figures in American history. While the idea of a fifth face has captivated imaginations for decades, it remains a myth rather than a reality. The discussions surrounding potential additions reflect the ongoing evolution of the nation and the desire to recognize new voices and contributions.
Whether it’s Crazy Horse, Susan B. Anthony, or Martin Luther King Jr., the conversation around the “fifth face” reveals much about how Americans view their history and the individuals they consider integral to the country’s story.
For now, Mount Rushmore will continue to inspire visitors with its original four faces, representing the birth, growth, and preservation of the United States.
