Smithsonian 250th-anniversary exhibit shows far more liberal than conservative artifacts

To commemorate the United States’ 250th anniversary, the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History curated “In Pursuit of Life, Liberty & Happiness,” a display of 250 objects ranging from a Lewis-Clark expedition compass and Abraham Lincoln’s hat to the desk on which the Declaration of Independence was written. In addition to these historic artifacts, the exhibit features modern items such as a pink “p-ssy” hat worn at the 2017 Women’s March, former Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s gavel, and Maya Angelou’s typewriter.

An analysis of the museum’s online catalog identified only seven pieces representing conservative movements—like a MAGA hat, a Tea Party placard and an NRA button—compared with almost two dozen linked to liberal causes such as LGBT rights, abortion access, racial justice and labor unions. Critics, including Donald Trump and other Republican officials, argue the selection skews the nation’s narrative. Museum director Anthea Hartig explained that curators aimed to spotlight moments when individuals or communities fought for recognition and identity. The Smithsonian did not respond to requests for comment.