The nation’s largest group of scholars of U.S. history, the American Historical Association, denounced a recent report by the Trump administration that criticized the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History. This response came on Friday, following the release of the White House report that questioned the museum's portrayal of American history.
Response from Historians
In their statement, the historians emphasized the importance of the Smithsonian as a trusted institution for historical accuracy. They argued that the administration’s critique undermines the integrity of historical scholarship and the vital role that museums play in educating the public.
“The Smithsonian is a cornerstone of American history, and its mission is to preserve and present our nation’s past,” said Association President in a press release. The historians insist that any attack on such institutions is an attack on the public’s right to understand their history.
Details of the Criticism
The White House report specifically labeled certain exhibitions as politically biased, claiming they do not reflect the full scope of American history. Critics argue that this assertion is unfounded and stems from a misunderstanding of how museums curate their collections.
