The debate surrounding how history is recorded and remembered often becomes complicated, especially concerning political figures and events. A recent incident highlighted this issue when the Smithsonian Institution announced the removal of references to President Donald Trump's impeachments from a panel in an exhibition about the American presidency. This decision appears to align with Trump's ongoing pressure on various institutions to emphasize achievements while downplaying what he deems “divisive” content.
The Smithsonian explained that the removal was part of a review of “legacy content” and plans to eventually include all impeachments in the exhibition, although no specific timeline was provided for these updates. A White House spokesperson expressed support for highlighting American greatness in museum displays, indicating the administration's intent to shape historical narratives.
This action is linked to broader efforts by the Trump administration to influence how American history is depicted. Scholars like Julian E. Zelizer from Princeton University suggested that these moves represent a significant effort to promote a specific narrative of the United States and to influence how the American public perceives Trump's role in history.
Historically, the ability to shape the narrative of events and figures has wielded power across the globe. For instance, in Communist China, any reference to the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests is strictly regulated, while in Soviet-era Russia, those who fell out of favor with leaders were erased from public memory. Such control over historical narratives serves as a critical tool for maintaining power, as stated by Jason Stanley, an expert on authoritarianism.
In the United States, presidents have historically sought to manipulate their portrayals in history. For example, Jackie Kennedy influenced edits in William Manchester’s biography of her husband, and the Reagans worked with a cable channel to release a favorable documentary. However, Trump's presidency has taken these efforts to a new level, fostering an environment where historical accounts can feel at odds with the truth as institutions balance their integrity against political pressures.
Professors such as Robin Wagner-Pacifici emphasize the importance of history in contextualizing individual and collective identities. They argue that displays and exhibits in museums are crucial for understanding our place in time; without them, it becomes challenging to grasp our historical journey. Timothy Naftali, who directed the Richard M. Nixon Presidential Library and Museum, expressed his disappointment at the Smithsonian's decision, arguing that museum directors should hold firm against political influence over historical narratives.
Wagner-Pacifici adds that the current political climate, especially Trump’s assertion that institutions like the Smithsonian have adopted a “divisive, race-centered ideology,” reflects the high stakes involved in the presentation of history. Those in power often feel the need to constantly justify their legitimacy, even in matters seemingly as inconsequential as historical displays.
