At America’s National Parks in the Trump Era, The Arc of History Bends Toward Revisionism

October 9, 2025

President Trump has directed a review of interpretive materials at National Park Service properties, requiring alterations to content that "inappropriately disparages Americans" or presents negative aspects of American history, including how slavery is portrayed. This directive extends beyond historical sites to nature parks where climate change references are being removed, such as at Acadia National Park where ten climate change signs have been taken down. While the impact remains unclear, some parks appear to be proceeding cautiously with changes, as seen at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park where the guided tour about John Brown's anti-slavery raid remains unflinching in its depiction of slavery.

Who is affected

National Park Service staff and interpreters who must review and potentially alter historical content
Visitors to national parks and historical sites who receive the information
Descendants of historical figures like Brianna Wheeler who have personal connections to the histories being told
Indigenous peoples and other marginalized groups whose histories may be sanitized
The general public's understanding of American history
Democratic lawmakers concerned about historical revisionism
Environmental advocates concerned about climate change information removal

What action is being taken

National Park Service is reviewing interpretive materials at all historical properties to remove descriptions that "inappropriately disparage Americans"
Brochures with references to "enslavers" have been pulled for revision at some parks
Ten signs citing climate change have been removed from Acadia National Park
Some materials at Muir Woods National Monument highlighting Indigenous displacement have been removed
Over 80 Democratic lawmakers have requested an accounting of changes made in what they call the "pursuit of censorship and erasure"
The Sierra Club is tracking changes at national parks across the country

Why it matters

This directive impacts how Americans understand their national history, particularly regarding difficult topics like slavery, Indigenous displacement, and environmental challenges. Accurate historical interpretation is crucial for educational purposes and for honoring the experiences of marginalized groups. As Brianna Wheeler stated about slavery, "You can't wipe that. You can't erase that. It's our obligation to not let that be erased." The changes could potentially sanitize America's complex past, affecting both present understanding and future perspectives on national identity. The tension between presenting an "uplifting" version of history versus an accurate account reflects broader cultural and political divisions about how America's past should be interpreted and taught.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

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