Ep 15. Mount Rushmore

Mount Rushmore, located in Black Hills, South Dakota, is the subject of Modern Marvels Season 1 Episode 15. This iconic monument is a cultural landmark in the United States of America, and the episode delves deep into the history and construction of the site.

The episode begins by exploring the history behind the creation of Mount Rushmore. The idea for this monument was first proposed by Doane Robinson, a historian, who wanted to create a tourist attraction in South Dakota. Robinson's original plan was to create a monument of pioneering heroes of the American West, but his idea did not gain much traction.

Later, sculptor Gutzon Borglum pitched the idea of carving the faces of Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and Roosevelt into Mount Rushmore. Borglum's vision was to create a lasting monument that would immortalize these Presidents and represent the ideals they embodied.

The episode then delves into the technical and logistical challenges involved in creating the monument. The work began in 1927 and lasted until 1941, with delays due to funding, weather conditions, and logistical issues. The construction was particularly challenging due to the rough terrain and the fact that the sculptures were three-dimensional. The workers had to carve away roughly 450,000 tons of granite to create the monument.

The episode highlights the unique drilling and blasting techniques used to sculpt the monument. Workers used a combination of drilling, chiseling, and blasting to create the figures' intricate details, such as their facial features, hairstyles, and clothing. The process relied heavily on the expertise and skill of the workers, who had to work with precision and care to avoid damaging the granite.

Moreover, the episode provides insight into the environmental impact of creating Mount Rushmore. Despite the monument's iconic status, it wasn't without controversy. Constructing the monument required moving thousands of tons of rock and soil, which had a significant impact on the ecosystem. The show also highlights the efforts made to restore the natural vegetation in the area.

The episode concludes by exploring how Mount Rushmore has become a beloved symbol of American history and democracy. The monument attracts more than two million visitors annually, and its enduring appeal has made it a focal point in American culture. The episode also discusses the changes and improvements made to the site over the years to make it more accessible and tourist-friendly.

Overall, Modern Marvels Season 1 Episode 15 does an excellent job of exploring the history, construction, and cultural significance of Mount Rushmore. The episode is informative, engaging and offers a unique perspective about the making of this iconic monument.