On the eve of July 4, 2024, I wanted to share why the following four men were chosen to represent America on a mountainside in South Dakota. Gutzon Borglum, the sculptor behind the project, selected these four presidents because, from his perspective, they represented the most important events in the history of the United States.

“The preservation of the sacred fire of Liberty, and the destiny of the Republican model of Government, are justly considered as deeply, perhaps as finally staked, on the experiment entrusted to the hands of the American people.” 
— George Washington

“We act not for ourselves but for the whole human race. The event of our experiment is to show whether man can be trusted with self-government.” 
— Thomas Jefferson

“I leave you hoping that the lamp of liberty will burn in your bosoms until there shall no longer be a doubt that all men are created free and equal.” 
— Abraham Lincoln

“The first requisite of a good citizen in this Republic of ours is that he shall be able and willing to pull his weight – that he shall not be a mere passenger.” 
— Theodore Roosevelt

As we celebrate the birth of our nation and its democracy, let us remember the characteristics that Borglum celebrated and use them to select men and women to lead our country who demonstrate them in their words and actions.