Legislation1846
Smithsonian Institution Established
President James K. Polk signed legislation creating the Smithsonian Institution, funded by a bequest from British scientist James Smithon "for the increase and diffusion of knowledge." The Smithsonian would grow into the world's largest museum and research complex.
Why It Matters
The Smithsonian represents the democratic ideal that knowledge and culture should be freely accessible to all citizens, serving as the nation's repository of history, science, and art.