Trump sets sights on national African American history museum

​In a significant shift from his earlier stance, President Donald Trump has recently targeted the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC), accusing it of promoting "improper ideology" and "divisive narratives." This move has sparked widespread criticism from historians, artists, and civil rights advocates who view it as an attempt to sanitize American history.​

Highlights of the Collection

• The museum's extensive collection includes iconic items such as:​
• The original Star-Spangled Banner
• Abraham Lincoln’s top hat
• Dorothy’s ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz
• Captain America’s shield, used by Chris Evans in Captain America: The Winter Soldier

Visitor Information

1. Hours: Open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., except on December 25
2. Admission: Free
3. Entrances: Accessible from both Constitution Avenue and Madison Drive

It seems you're interested in the National Museum of American History and possibly specific exhibits related to $500 bills. Here's some information that might help:

$500 Currency Exhibits

The museum's collection includes several historical $500 notes:​

• 1824 $500 Note: An early example of high-denomination U.S. currency from Virginia, currently not on public display. ​
• National Museum of American History
• 1864 Confederate $500 Bill: A banknote issued by the Confederate States during the Civil War, dated February 17, 1864. ​
• National Museum of American History
• 500 Lei Note: A Romanian banknote, reflecting the museum's broader collection of international currency.

A Change in Tone

During his first term, President Trump visited the NMAAHC in February 2017, praising it as a "national gem" and expressing pride in a museum that honors the contributions of African Americans to the nation's heritage. He toured the museum with figures like Senator Tim Scott and Dr. Ben Carson, acknowledging the importance of the exhibits and the stories they tell.

The Executive Order

Contrasting his earlier praise, in March 2025, President Trump signed an executive order titled "Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History." The order criticizes the NMAAHC for allegedly portraying "hard work," "individualism," and "the nuclear family" as aspects of "White culture." It directs Vice President J.D. Vance, a member of the Smithsonian Institution's Board of Regents, to oversee the removal of content deemed to promote divisive ideologies.

Public and Scholarly Backlash

The executive order has been met with significant backlash. Historians argue that it attempts to whitewash American history by downplaying the nation's struggles with racism and inequality. Kyle Mays, a professor at UCLA, labeled the move a "fascist" attempt to erase the history of racism and sexism in the United States.

Artists and cultural commentators have also expressed concern. Roberto Lugo, an artist featured in the Smithsonian's American Art Museum, criticized the order for censoring art that addresses racial issues. Politicians like Representative Jasmine Crockett have condemned the order, emphasizing the importance of preserving truthful historical narratives. Institutional Resistance

Institutional Resistance

Despite the executive order, the Smithsonian Institution maintains a degree of autonomy, with its Board of Regents comprising members from both political parties and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. This structure makes it challenging for any administration to unilaterally impose changes. Lonnie Bunch, the Smithsonian Secretary and founding director of the NMAAHC, has reaffirmed the institution's commitment to scholarly integrity and nonpartisanship.

Broader Implications

This development is part of a broader trend where cultural institutions are becoming battlegrounds for ideological conflicts. President Trump's actions reflect a larger campaign against what he perceives as "woke" culture, aiming to reshape narratives around American history and identity. Critics warn that such efforts threaten the integrity of historical scholarship and the nation's commitment to confronting its past honestly.

The NMAAHC and other similar institutions' futures are in jeopardy as debates continue, with many advocating for the preservation of comprehensive and inclusive historical narratives that reflect the various experiences that have shaped the United States.