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In Social Studies / Middle School | 2014-08-14

Why aren't the heads in Mount Rushmore placed in the order of the men's presidencies?

A. Each head was placed where the rock could be most easily shaped into that person's face.
B. No one knew the order in which the men had served as U.S. presidents.
C. The job was done before the sculptor realized that heads weren't in the right order.

Asked by RoninV

Answer (2)

The heads on Mount Rushmore are not placed in the order of the men's presidencies because each head was placed where the rock could be most easily shaped into that person's face. This decision was influenced by the natural features of the granite face, the overall composition and visual balance of the sculpture, and the structural integrity of the rock. The layout was not an oversight nor a lack of historical knowledge, but rather a deliberate artistic and practical choice made by the sculptor, Gutzon Borglum, who aimed to create a monument with serenity, nobility, and power.

Answered by JohnEvergreen | 2024-06-18

The heads on Mount Rushmore are placed based on the ease of sculpting each president's face, not their order in the presidency. This decision was influenced by the natural rock features and artistic balance envisioned by the sculptor, Gutzon Borglum. Thus, the correct answer is A: Each head was placed where the rock could be most easily shaped into that person's face.
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Answered by JohnEvergreen | 2024-10-01