In recent years, radicals have sought to reshape America’s historical narrative. They’ve melted busts, disturbed graves, altered species names, shattered church windows, and hidden artistic works. One notable act was the removal of an iconic brand, which pushed forward a revisionist agenda. This is akin to actions from historical figures driven by jealousy and resentment, from the Jacobins to the Taliban, all lamentably tearing down statues.
Among the many figures targeted are Spanish missionary Junípero Serra and former presidents Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln. However, two pivotal figures — George Washington and Christopher Columbus — represent not just greatness but also the foundations of the nation we recognize today.
Each statue that falls tells a trio of stories. First, there’s the tale of those who erected it, showcasing whom they deemed worthy of honor. Second, we consider the perspective of those who brought it down and what memories they wish to erase. Lastly, the person depicted, despite the destruction of their image, maintains an enduring presence.
As an Italian-born American sculptor for over two decades, I reflect on Pompeo Coppini’s work, specifically a bronze statue of George Washington. Commissioned by Henry Waldo Coe, it weighs 1,920 pounds and stands 8 feet tall, currently being crafted by the Portland Monument Project. This statue depicts Washington in a commanding pose, cane in hand, poised for respect.
Interestingly, Coppini didn’t survive to see its dedication in 1927, commemorating the 500th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 1926. The statue was installed near the German American Society in Northeast Portland, thanks to Reverend William Wallace Jonsson, a founder of the local Methodist Church.
One recent conversation revealed a clear understanding among those who installed the statue a century ago. They argued its purpose isn’t to canonize these figures but to honor their historical significance. Washington, for instance, was not only a revolutionary leader but also turned down an offer to be a king during a time of absolute monarchy. His efforts laid the groundwork for democracy in a country that still grapples with imperfections today.
The destruction of Washington’s statue on June 19, 2020, marked a troubling moment. Vandals attacked it, emblazoning slogans like “genocidal colonists” and “BLM,” before the city opted to store the statue rather than restore it. Notably, no arrests were made regarding this incident.
As plans for the statue’s restoration progress, it’s unclear what the final outcome will be. Yet, Washington’s legacy is pivotal, timeless, and influential in American history.
Turning to Christopher Columbus, known as the “Admiral of the Ocean,” his voyages under the Spanish flag undeniably set the stage for American civilization. In 2020, the protests targeted his likeness as well, leading to the downfall of several statues depicting him. One notable monument was a marble statue gifted to Baltimore in 1984 by the Italian community, celebrated for its portrayal of Columbus and his fleet.
At the statue’s unveiling, then-President Ronald Reagan emphasized the valuable contributions of Italian Americans, linking them directly to Columbus’ groundbreaking voyage. Columbus, despite facing turmoil and narrative shifts, paved the way for significant historical movements.
On July 4, 2020, Columbus’ statue in Baltimore met a similar fate, as protestors dismantled it, calling for broader changes regarding historical figures linked to oppressive legacies. The response from city officials seemed to sanction this destruction, suggesting it was a part of a larger review of monuments that represent varying ideals.
Likewise, current leaders expressed mixed feelings about Columbus’ legacy, with Mayor Brandon Scott acknowledging the complexity of community sentiments surrounding the figure. Even as some seek to erase Columbus from memory, many Americans cherish the contributions he represents.
Despite the attempts to rewrite historical narratives, the legacies of both Washington and Columbus remain etched in history. The toppled statues symbolize the ongoing struggle between differing perspectives in America, highlighting the stories worthy of remembrance against an increasingly polarized backdrop. Each man’s influence continues to resonate, showing that the true essence of the country lies not in its destruction but in its courageous spirit of discovery and building.
