The Tech Bros' Statue-Maxxing Obsession: A Controversial Trend?
Are tech bros on a mission to reshape America's identity through monumental statues?
The Statue of Liberty, a timeless symbol of America's welcoming spirit, has inspired a unique obsession among a group of tech investors. According to Bloomberg, these Republican-aligned individuals are on a quest to create their own iconic landmarks, but with a twist. They aim to build statues that represent the darker side of American history and culture, a trend that has sparked both fascination and controversy.
Let's dive into the world of these ambitious tech entrepreneurs and their statue-building endeavors.
The Statue-Maxxing Crew
Ross Calvin, the Bitcoin Mining Enthusiast: Calvin envisions a colossal 450-foot statue of Prometheus on Alcatraz Island. His plan involves lobbying for a national monument designation, which would allow him to construct this towering sculpture. The statue, visible from the entire Bay Area, would be an impressive sight, but it also raises questions about the impact on the island's natural and historical significance.
Joe Lonsdale, the Classical Aestheticist: Lonsdale, a Palantir co-founder and Peter Thiel associate, has a penchant for classical aesthetics. He has commissioned sculptures of the Greek goddesses, the Three Graces, and a neoclassical bust of Bari Weiss. His interest in classical art and architecture is evident, but his involvement with the National Monuments Foundation, led by a Trump appointee, has raised eyebrows.
Elad Gil, the Financier: Gil, a prominent angel investor, started the project 'Monumental' with a vision to build large statues. He seeks to finance a statue that 'odes to the future,' drawing inspiration from ancient structures like the Aztec and Mayan temples, the Sphinx, and the Great Wall of China. Gil's approach to statue-building is more about the future than the past, but his values and influences have sparked debates.
Mo Mahmood, the Ambitious Statuesque Builder: With the grandest vision, Mahmood aims to construct a 650-foot statue of George Washington. He has already built a 54-foot oil derrick statue, and his company is set to unveil a 50-foot Washington statue on July 4, 2026. While his ambition is impressive, it also raises questions about the impact on the environment and the historical significance of the chosen subject.
The White House Connection
Interestingly, these statue-maxxing tech bros might find an ally in the White House. Donald Trump has allocated funds for a National Garden of American Heroes, featuring over 250 statues of iconic figures. His plans for a triumphal arch in Washington, D.C., further emphasize his interest in grand, visually striking monuments.
But here's where it gets controversial... Are these tech investors, with their unique interpretations of American history, simply celebrating their values, or are they attempting to reshape the nation's identity? Do these statues have the potential to inspire or divide the public? It's a thought-provoking question that invites discussion and debate.
What do you think? Do you agree or disagree with these tech bros' statue-building endeavors? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
