David Blight

Republican lawmakers accused the Smithsonian Institution of promoting a 'woke ideology' during a hearing on editorial control of its museums and historical content. Critics called for leadership changes and criticized upcoming museums, while historians and Democratic lawmakers defended the institution's independence. The Trump administration previously accused the Smithsonian of 'extreme political activism.'

Republican lawmakers accused the Smithsonian Institution of promoting a 'woke ideology' during a hearing over editorial control of historical presentations. A Heritage Foundation representative called for leadership changes, while the Trump administration criticized the Smithsonian for 'extreme political activism.' Historians and Democrats defended the institution's independence.

Republican lawmakers accused the Smithsonian Institution of promoting a 'woke ideology' during a hearing, with critics calling for leadership changes and condemning the institution's focus on American history. The Trump administration previously accused the Smithsonian of 'extreme political activism,' while historians and lawmakers defended its role as a public institution. The Smithsonian is governed by a Board of Regents.

The article examines the U.S. at its 250th anniversary, highlighting its historical evolution and current challenges like political divisions and institutional distrust. Eleven historians and writers reflect on American identity, democratic principles, and the nation's future sustainability, emphasizing ideals from the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.