A Walk Through a Smithsonian Museum Reveals American Genius and Cruelty as Trump Presses for Change

September 8, 2025

The Smithsonian's National Museum of American History presents a comprehensive view of America that includes both achievements and historical injustices, drawing criticism from former President Donald Trump who wants museums to focus primarily on American success and pride. Trump has threatened to withhold funding unless the museums shift away from what he perceives as negative portrayals, despite the museum's extensive displays of American innovation, heroism, and accomplishments alongside exhibits addressing slavery, imperialism, and racial injustice. The museum's balanced approach explores the complexities of American history through artifacts ranging from George Washington's uniform and Thomas Edison's light bulbs to shackles representing slavery and items highlighting the experiences of marginalized groups.

Who is affected

Visitors to the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History
The Smithsonian Institution and its staff, including conservators and curators
American citizens whose history is represented or excluded in the exhibits
Marginalized groups whose stories are told in the museum (including Native Americans, Japanese Americans, slaves, and immigrants)
Students and researchers who use the museum for educational purposes
Future generations who would experience potentially altered historical narratives

What action is being taken

Trump is publicly criticizing the Smithsonian museums on social media for their portrayal of American history
Trump is threatening to withhold government funding unless the museums adopt a more positive, accomplishment-focused narrative
Conservators at the museum are currently restoring the gunboat Philadelphia for America's 250th anniversary celebrations next year
The museum recently removed and then restored references to Trump's two impeachments in an exhibit about presidential power
The museum continues displaying artifacts that represent both American achievements and historical injustices

Why it matters

The dispute represents a fundamental disagreement about how American history should be presented—as a complex narrative including both achievements and failures, or as a primarily positive story of success
Government funding comprises most of the Smithsonian's budget, making the threat of withheld funding significant to operations
The museum's presentation of history shapes public understanding of American identity and values
Exhibits addressing historical injustices provide recognition for marginalized groups whose experiences might otherwise be overlooked
The conflict highlights broader cultural and political tensions about national identity and historical memory

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint