The Smithsonian Institution is the umbrella organization for 21 museums, 21 libraries, 14 education and research centers, a zoo, and historical and architectural landmarks located in Washington, D.C.,
Maryland, New York, and Virginia. There are also Smithsonian affiliates in Puerto Rico and Panama.
Established in 1846, the Smithsonian is highly regarded as a symbol of American excellence and considered a global icon of cultural achievement. The institution draws over 30 million annual visitors to its facilities, with most admitted free of charge. An addition to this enviable portfolio of cultural attractions will be the Smithsonian American Women's History Museum, a future museum dedicated to women's history, to be located in Washington, D.C.
US President Donald Trump, however, has already criticized the museum for planning to celebrate "the exploits of male athletes participating in women's sports." His comments are part of wider disapproval leveled at Smithsonian programs that he says advance "divisive narratives" and "improper ideology."
Meanwhile, click through the following gallery for a brief history of this venerated institution.