Description: [view in Spanish]International exchange has always been a major part of the Smithsonian's mission. To acquire publications from leading scientific societies, Secretary Henry offered in exchange the journal, Smithsonian Contributions to Knowledge. Henry and assistant secretary Baird also distributed publications from U.S. colleges, museums, scientific societies, and scientists
Description: Exactly 165 years ago today, legislation establishing the Smithsonian Institution was passed by the US Congress and signed into law by President James K. Polk. From today’s perspective, it seems like a “no-brainer” to accept a generous bequest from a little-known Englishman named James Smithson and create an institution in his name. But from the perspective of that era, the