The Controversial Legacy of the Roosevelt Statue at the American Museum of Natural History

Have you ever stood before an imposing statue, its grandeur commanding attention, only to feel a sense of unease? This is the dichotomy many people experience upon encountering the Theodore Roosevelt statue that once graced the grand entrance of the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH). A testament to the past, it embodies an era of bold exploration, yet it also reflects a history of colonialism and racial prejudice that has left a lasting scar on the American narrative. The statue’s removal in 2021 sparked a nationwide debate, forcing us to confront our own deeply held beliefs about the legacy of the past.

Image: www.cbc.ca

The statue, unveiled in 1940, portrays Roosevelt on horseback, flanked by a Native American man and an African man, both seemingly subservient to the former president. The portrayal, though considered complimentary by many in the past, has become increasingly controversial in recent decades. It’s not just the imagery that troubles many; it is the context—the very foundation of the statue’s creation. The statue was constructed during a time when the AMNH, like many other institutions, actively propagated the narrative of white supremacy. This became increasingly unacceptable as the museum, a prominent educational institution, faced growing calls for accountability and inclusivity.

A Closer Look at the History

Theodore Roosevelt, the twenty-sixth president of the United States, is a controversial figure. He was, without doubt, a charismatic leader, a progressive reformer, and a champion of conservation. However, his legacy is also marred by his explicit embrace of colonial expansionism and racial biases. As President, Roosevelt supported the annexation of Puerto Rico and the Philippines, and his policies ultimately led to the deaths of thousands of indigenous peoples across the globe. His actions, though often portrayed as inevitable consequences of the era, reflected a clear preference for white supremacy.

The statue itself is a product of the prevailing ideology of the 1930s and 40s—a time when “manifest destiny” was considered a cornerstone of American identity. However, the world has changed significantly since then. The rise of civil rights movements, the growing awareness of historical injustices, and the increasing demand for racial equity have forced us to re-examine the statues, monuments, and narratives that have long shaped our understanding of the past.

A Symbol of American History, but Also of Its Flaws

The Roosevelt statue, once considered an appropriate representation of a great leader, is now seen by many as a troubling artifact of an era marked by racial and colonial injustices. It embodies a harmful narrative, one that portrays the contributions of the non-white populace as inconsequential at best and detrimental at worst. As the museum recognized, the statue’s continued presence was dissonant with its mission to promote inclusive and ethical education.

The statue’s removal was not an act of censorship, but rather a step towards a more balanced and inclusive representation of history. The museum, in its statement, acknowledged the statue’s historical significance, but also recognized that “the time has come to tell a more complete and accurate story about the history of American exploration,” one which includes the voices of those who were traditionally marginalized.

Redefining the Narrative

The controversy surrounding the Roosevelt statue highlights the need for constant reevaluation and critical analysis of how we understand and portray history. It’s not about erasing the past, but rather understanding it in its full complexity. The museum’s decision to remove the statue, while controversial, is a step in the right direction.

It is a powerful reminder that history is not stagnant. It is woven into the intricate fabric of our collective memory, susceptible to shifts in our own understanding and evolving ethical standards. The AMNH is an institution that holds a unique position in shaping public perception of the past. By removing the statue, the museum takes a stand against the perpetuation of harmful narratives and embraces the complexity of American history.

Image: ny.curbed.com

Roosevelt Statue Natural History Museum

Moving Forward: Facing Our History with Open Eyes

The removal of the Roosevelt statue was not simply an act of symbolic gesture. It is a call for a deeper engagement with history, one which confronts discomfort and actively seeks to unravel the narrative in its entirety. The museum’s response has sparked a nationwide conversation about statues, monuments, and the very nature of historical representation.

The Roosevelt statue controversy holds important lessons for all of us. It reminds us that the narratives we cling to are constantly evolving, and that engaging with history means confronting uncomfortable truths, recognizing the harm done in the past, and striving for a more inclusive and equitable future. It is a reminder that progress involves examining the foundations upon which our social fabric is built, re-evaluating our assumptions, and working to dismantle the structures of oppression that still exist in our society. The future of remembrance lies in our willingness to face the past with open eyes and a commitment to a more equitable narrative.