Smithsonian to Open African American Museum
Despite what some former vice-presidential nominees have said, not all of the founding fathers fought tirelessly to end slavery. That historical fact will be among those addressed in 2015 when the newest Smithsonian Institution - the National Museum of African American History and Culture - is set to open on the National Mall in Washington.
In a groundbreaking ceremony tied to African-American History Month featuring President Obama and former First Lady Laura Bush, the Smithsonian announced plans to host exhibits such as one exposing the role of Thomas Jefferson as a slave owner. It will also house the shawl owned by Harriet Tubman, who helped many slaves to freedom, and a railroad car from the Jim Crow-era of segregation as well as highlighting the accomplishments of military, sports and show business figures. The Smithsonian's role in bringing the Museum to light is particularly poignant since it was the same institution that barred abolitionist Frederick Douglass from participating in a debate with President Lincoln back in 1862.
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