Why were George Washington Thomas Jefferson Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln chosen for mount Rushmore?

Answer 1

Mount Rushmore depicts four United States Presidents (left to right): George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.

George Washington, (1st president) led the early colonial army in the American Revolutionary War to win independence from Great Britain. Because of his importance and his role in creating the United States, Washington is the most prominent figure on the mountain. (1732-1799)

Thomas Jefferson, (3rd president) he was the author of the Declaration of Independence, a document which inspires democracies around the world. He also purchased the Louisiana Territory from France in 1803 which doubled the size of our country, adding all or part of fifteen present-day states. (1743-1826)

Theodore Roosevelt, (26th president) provided leadership when America experienced rapid economic growth as it entered the 20th Century. He was instrumental in negotiating the construction of the Panama Canal, linking the east and the west. He was known as the "trust buster" for his work to end large corporate monopolies and ensure the rights of the common working man. He is also the leading land conservationist in world history, setting aside over 230 million acres for conservation purposes. (1858-1919)

Abraham Lincoln, (16th president) held the nation together during its greatest trial, the Civil War. Lincoln believed his most sacred duty was the preservation of the union. His efforts put an end to slavery. (1809-1865).

Because they had the biggest impact on America today. They were all great presidents!

Answer 2

Master sculptor Gutzon Borglum wanted the massive carving to represent the meaning of American. The four presidents were carefully chosen to be part of Mt Rushmore. George Washington represents the birth of the country, Thomas Jefferson the expansion of the nation, Abe Lincoln the preservation of the Union and Theodore Roosevelt represents the development of the country.