the Smithsonian's national history museum, 1881-2018 Allison, David K. 1950- creator author. Peterson, Hannah (Hannah L. C.) author. Smithsonian Institution Scholarly Press issuing body. text bibliography dcu 2021 monographic eng

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413 p. "This book explores the varied ways that the National Museum of American History and its predecessors conveyed the story of America in its exhibitions to millions of annual visitors through five distinct eras of history. Because of the museum's size and scope and its prominent presence in the nation's capital, its leaders have always aspired to grand visions of it mission and program. Yet the realities of exhibition development tempered and shaped what was ultimately displayed on its floors in many surprising and provocative ways. These five eras were: The Nation's Attic (1876-1964), A Museum of History and Technology (1964-1969), Celebrating America' Bicentennial (1969-1979), A National Museum of American History (1979-2001), and What does it mean to be American? (2001-2018). The narrative describes what was on display through both narrative discussions and a wealth of illustrations. In addition, it explores the background stories of how and why the museum chose to mount the exhibitions it presented. A conclusion offers reflections on historical trends and continuing challenges for the museum"-- general David K. Allison and Hannah Peterson. Includes bibliographical references. n-us--- n-us-dc National Museum of American History (U.S.) Exhibitions National Museum of American History (U.S.) History National museums Washington (D.C.) National characteristics, American United States Civilization Exhibitions United States History Exhibitions E169.1 .A4435 2021 973.074753 SI 1.60:AM 3 SI 1.60:AM 3 Allison, David K., Washington, D.C. : Smithsonian Scholarly Press, 2021. (DLC) 2020042795 9781944466404 2020042794 DGPO/DLC 200921 20220119163012.0 21786321 eng