In a bold and controversial move, former President Donald Trump is attempting to reshape the way America’s history is presented—starting with the Smithsonian Institution. His latest executive order, announced earlier this month, directs Vice President JD Vance to challenge what Trump calls “improper ideology” in U.S. museums, especially those under the Smithsonian’s banner.
While Trump’s supporters argue that this move protects American heritage, critics and historians say it crosses a dangerous line between political opinion and historical fact.
The Executive Order: What’s at Stake?
The executive order tasks JD Vance with overseeing a new initiative aimed at “correcting the record” across the Smithsonian Institution’s exhibits and publications. Trump has claimed that many historical institutions in the U.S., including museums and education boards, are “distorting facts to suit leftist ideologies.”
His proposed changes would affect not only how events like slavery, civil rights, and immigration are portrayed but also how modern American politics and economics are taught to future generations.
Yet, there’s one major issue: the Smithsonian Institution is not under direct executive control.
The Smithsonian’s Independence: A Crucial Safeguard
The Smithsonian was established as an independent federal trust, and its governance structure includes members of Congress, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, and academic experts. Its Secretary, Lonnie Bunch, has reaffirmed the Institution’s nonpartisan and evidence-based approach to history and science.
“We are not here to rewrite history—we are here to preserve and present it with honesty,” Bunch stated. “The American people deserve truth, not propaganda.”
This institutional independence makes it unlikely that Trump’s executive order will have any binding legal effect. However, the political pressure and public rhetoric may still influence funding discussions and public trust.
A Familiar Pattern: Culture Wars and Historical Narratives
This isn’t the first time Trump has sought to reshape cultural institutions. During his presidency, he launched the now-defunct 1776 Commission, which attempted to counter the New York Times’ 1619 Project by promoting a more “patriotic” version of U.S. history. The commission’s report was widely criticized by scholars for lacking academic credibility and downplaying the role of slavery and systemic racism.
Trump’s latest move appears to be a continuation of that effort, further fueling America’s ongoing culture war over historical truth.
Public Reaction: Divided Along Party Lines
The public’s reaction to Trump’s Smithsonian order has been predictably polarized. Many conservatives view the move as a necessary step to protect national pride and fight back against what they see as anti-American narratives in schools and museums.
On the other hand, educators, historians, and civil rights advocates argue that this initiative threatens academic freedom and historical accuracy. “Facts are not political,” said Dr. Angela Myers, a history professor at George Washington University. “Whitewashing the past only guarantees that we repeat it.”
Social media platforms have seen trending hashtags like #DefendHistory and #SmithsonianStands, as Americans debate what version of the past should be passed on to future generations.
The Bigger Picture: Why It Matters
History isn’t just about the past—it shapes our national identity, informs public policy, and influences how we engage with one another as citizens. When political figures attempt to manipulate historical narratives, it risks undermining democracy itself.
Museums like the Smithsonian are meant to be guardians of knowledge, culture, and truth. Allowing political pressure to interfere with that mission could set a dangerous precedent—not just for the U.S., but for democracies worldwide.
Final Thoughts: Preserving Truth in a Divided America
Donald Trump’s effort to influence the Smithsonian Institution may be more symbolic than legally binding, but it represents a broader conflict over truth, memory, and power. As debates over history become more heated, the role of museums and scholars becomes even more critical.
Americans must ask themselves: Do we want our history curated by scholars—or politicians? The answer may define the kind of nation we become.