Smithsonian in Wartime

Find out how the Smithsonian shared its expertise, staff, and funds during times of national crisis.

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Smithsonian During WWII

S. Dillon Ripley in Ceylon during WWII

With expertise in the Pacific world, the US military turned to the Smithsonian during World War II because of its unique areas of knowledge in science, culture, and history.  Soldiers stationed abroad in turn helped increase the Smithsonian’s understanding of the region.  And back at home in the Nation’s Capital, the Smithsonian prepared to keep its collections safe