A Step Toward Scientific Self-Identity in the United States: The Failure of the National Institute, 1844
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PrintDiscusses the foundation of the National Institute for the Promotion of Science in 1840 by Joel Poinsett and Francis Markoe, Jr., Poinsett's role in preserving the collections of the United States Exploring Expedition, and attempts to secure the Smithson bequest to establish a national museum as part of the National Institute. Argues that the National Institute faded in contrast to the emerging scientific community, embodied in the Association of American Geologists and Naturalists (later the American Association for the Advancement of Science), and failed because its members were amateurs, rather than practicing scientists, who attempted to gain political control of scientific research and collections.
Smithsonian Institution History Bibliography
Isis Vol. 62, Part 3, No. 213 (Journal)
Institutional History Division, Smithsonian Institution Archives, 600 Maryland Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20024-2520, SIHistory@si.edu
1971
pp. 339-362