Matthew Davis
Writer and journalist whose work has appeared in outlets including The Atlantic and The New Yorker, and author of A Biography of a Mountain: The Making and Meaning of Mount Rushmore (St. Martin's Press, 2025).
Best podcasts with Matthew Davis
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Jan 4, 2026 • 1h 6min
Matthew Davis, "A Biography of a Mountain: The Making and Meaning of Mount Rushmore" (St. Martin's Press, 2025)
Matthew Davis, a writer and journalist whose work has graced The Atlantic and The New Yorker, dives deep into the complex history of Mount Rushmore. He discusses how the monument serves as an American Rorschach test, revealing competing myths of the nation. Davis shares insights on the tumultuous life of sculptor Gutzon Borglum, the impact of the Black Hills' Native history, and the controversies surrounding the site. With a focus on how monuments evolve, he encourages a nuanced reflection on national identity.
Dec 13, 2025 • 44min
Mount Rushmore: America's Most Monumental Contradiction
Matthew Davis, author and historian known for his work on Mount Rushmore, dives into the complexities of this iconic monument. He explores the impressive engineering behind its creation alongside the troubling colonial history tied to its site. Davis reveals Gutzon Borglum's controversial ties to the KKK and discusses the selection of Presidents, stressing their symbolic representation. He also highlights the contrasting perspectives of Native rights and the importance of acknowledging hidden narratives about this American landmark.
