Before it became known as Mount Rushmore, the Lakota people referred to this magnificent granite formation as Tunkasila Sakpe Paha, which translates to Six Grandfathers Mountain. This name holds deep significance and reflects the cultural and spiritual connections that the Lakota have with the land.
Growing up in South Dakota, I had the opportunity to learn about the rich history and traditions of the Lakota people. Their oral history and legends passed down through generations often revolve around the natural features of the land, including Six Grandfathers Mountain.
The name “Six Grandfathers” refers to the six prominent granite peaks that make up the mountain. Each peak is said to represent one of the Lakota’s six grandfathers or spiritual beings. These grandfathers are revered for their wisdom, guidance, and protection.
For the Lakota, this mountain holds immense spiritual and cultural significance. It has long been a sacred site where ceremonies, vision quests, and other rituals took place. The Lakota people believe that the mountain is a place where they can connect with their ancestors and the spirits of the land.
Unfortunately, the history of this mountain took a different turn when the United States government decided to carve the faces of four American presidents into the granite. The decision to create Mount Rushmore as a national monument came at the expense of the Lakota’s sacred site.
The Lakota and other Native American tribes have expressed deep disappointment and frustration over the desecration of Six Grandfathers Mountain. They believe that the carving of the faces not only erases their own history and culture but also perpetuates a narrative of colonization and oppression.
It is important to acknowledge the significance of the original name, Tunkasila Sakpe Paha, and the cultural heritage it represents. By using the name Mount Rushmore, we inadvertently contribute to the erasure of Native American history and the ongoing struggles they face.
In recent years, there have been calls to return the mountain to the Lakota and restore its original name. These efforts are part of a broader movement towards recognizing and respecting the rights and sovereignty of Native American tribes.
Before it became Mount Rushmore, the Lakota people knew this majestic granite formation as Tunkasila Sakpe Paha, or Six Grandfathers Mountain. It is vital that we honor and acknowledge the cultural significance of this original name and work towards a more inclusive and respectful representation of Native American history and heritage.