Description: James Smithson: The Man Behind the InstitutionWhile the institution named after James Smithson enjoys worldwide renown, we know little about the man who left $508,318 to the people of the United States to found such an institution.An English scientist who conducted research in chemistry, mineralogy, and geology, Smithson lived and traveled in several European countries. His
Description: Joseph Henry,the first Smithsonian Secretary, served from 1846 to 1878 and was a physicist who conducted pioneering research in electromagnetism.