The Smithsonian Institution has removed an exhibit linked to former US President Donald Trump's impeachment proceedings, raising questions about the politicisation of historical displays.
According to reports, the National Museum of American History in Washington DC took down the display featuring artefacts from Trump's 2021 impeachment trial without public announcement. The exhibit had included items such as the signed impeachment resolution and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's pen used to sign the documents.
Controversy Over Historical Interpretation
Museum officials stated the removal was part of routine rotations, but critics argue it reflects growing pressure on cultural institutions to avoid controversial political topics. "Museums should present history objectively, regardless of current political sensitivities," argued one historian familiar with the matter.
Political Reactions
The decision has drawn mixed reactions from political figures. Some Republican lawmakers praised the move as correcting a "partisan display," while Democratic representatives expressed concern about "whitewashing recent history."
The Smithsonian maintains its commitment to presenting American history "comprehensively and without bias," though it declined to specify when or if the exhibit might return.
