History reveals our shared humanity and our power to shape the world. Understanding our nation’s history—in all its beauty, trauma, and complexity—is essential to our collective future; democracy depends on it. Over the next five to 10 years, the museum will focus its scholarship, programs and exhibitions on strengthening democracy by helping visitors become more engaged and informed citizens.
As the museum prepares to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, we are building philanthropic support to increase knowledge of our shared history and understanding of why it matters; make national treasures more accessible and ensure their care for future generations; and build diverse audiences and engage them to participate in our democracy.
Under the Smithsonian Campaign for Our Shared Future, we are raising funds to:
- Develop a program to inspire engagement in shaping the nation’s next 250 years. The country’s semiquincentennial is a critical moment to demonstrate that history is vital and relevant to our daily lives. The National Museum of American History is developing a robust slate of exhibitions, programs and events including a visible-to-the-public conservation project on the National Historic Landmark Gunboat Philadelphia.
- Upgrade cataloguing processes, improved collections digitization and provide new and improved digital access to collections; and
- Develop new public and educational programs, and communication and marketing initiatives with a focus on greater inclusivity. Under this last priority, the museum looks to endow programs and positions within its pre-K-12 education and daily programs initiatives.