Trump challenges historical narrative at Smithsonian Institution, overturning a controversial 'woke' reinterpretation

The Smithsonian Institute, a renowned cultural institution in the United States, has found itself at the centre of a debate surrounding its focus on slavery in its exhibits.

Recent developments have seen an increased emphasis on the history of slavery, a change that originated from the Black Lives Matter movement. This shift has raised concerns for some, with President Trump expressing a desire for a review of the Smithsonian.

Trump's criticism is that the Smithsonian's displays are too negative and too focused on slavery, overshadowing the American achievement of ending slavery. He argues that museums should provide an honest account of history, but should not shy away from celebrating American achievement.

The Smithsonian's 2020 annual report indicates a focus on digitizing the Slavery and Freedom exhibition first in its "Searchable Museum Initiative." This move towards digital preservation of slavery history has been met with mixed reactions.

However, it's important to note that not all Smithsonian museums are equally focused on slavery. For instance, the Smithsonian's American Indian Museum in New York City does not mention slavery practiced by Native Americans before or after European arrival.

The National Portrait Gallery, another Smithsonian institution, includes statements on slavery in the descriptions of early Founding Fathers, such as Thomas Jefferson.

In a move to diversify its offerings, the Smithsonian Institute has two new museums in development: the National Museum of the American Latino and the Smithsonian American Women's History Museum. These museums are expected to provide a broader perspective on American history, including the experiences of marginalised communities.

Lonnie G. Bunch III, who became the Secretary of the Smithsonian in 2019, previously served as the founding director of the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture. His leadership has been instrumental in shaping the Smithsonian's focus on underrepresented histories.

However, not everyone agrees with this shift. Elizabeth Weiss, a professor emeritus of anthropology at San Jose State University and author of "On the Warpath: My Battles with Indians, Pretendians, and Woke Warriors," has criticised the Smithsonian for what she perceives as a push towards a "woke, revisionist history" of the United States.

In 2019, the Smithsonian collaborated with the New York Times on the 1619 Project, which has been criticised for falsely claiming that the United States began with the arrival of the first slave ship. This collaboration has further fuelled the debate about the Smithsonian's historical narrative.

As the Smithsonian continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how it will balance the need for an honest account of history with the celebration of American achievement. One thing is certain: the institution's focus on slavery and its impact on American history is a topic that will continue to spark discussion and debate.