Every Collection has a Story. The Archives holds records that document the Smithsonian’s people, events, buildings, and research. The history of the Smithsonian is a vital part of the history of American experience, scientific exploration, and international cultural understanding.
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December 16, 2003
Legislation (P.L. 108-184) is passed and signed by President George W. Bush creating a National Museum of African American History and Culture, as part of the Smithsonian Institution. The new museum will be dedicated to the documentation of African American life, art, history, and culture, and will open to the public in 2015.
