Legal Definitions - Smithsonian Institution

The Smithsonian Institution is an independent organization in the United States, operating as a trust dedicated to the advancement and sharing of knowledge. Its core functions involve conducting extensive scientific and scholarly research, publishing the findings of this research, and meticulously preserving an enormous collection of cultural artifacts, works of art, and scientific specimens. These vast collections are utilized for academic study, public exhibition in its numerous museums, and sometimes loaned to other institutions. The Smithsonian also plays a vital role in public education and engages in collaborative research efforts with international partners. It was established in 1846, funded by a generous gift from the British scientist James Smithson.

• Example 1: A team of researchers at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute in Panama discovers a new species of insect. They then publish their detailed findings in a peer-reviewed scientific journal, making the information accessible to the global scientific community.

  How this illustrates the term: This scenario directly demonstrates the Smithsonian Institution's commitment to "conducting scientific and scholarly research" and "publishing its results," fulfilling its mission to increase and disseminate knowledge.

• Example 2: A family visits the National Museum of American History, one of the Smithsonian's many museums, to see the original Star-Spangled Banner. They participate in a guided tour that explains the flag's historical significance and its preservation efforts.

  How this illustrates the term: This example highlights the Smithsonian's role in "maintaining over 140 million artifacts, works of art, and scientific specimens for study, display" and "engaging in educational programming" for the public.

• Example 3: The Smithsonian's National Museum of Asian Art collaborates with a museum in Japan to co-host an exhibition of ancient Japanese ceramics. As part of this partnership, curators from both institutions conduct joint research on the historical context and artistic techniques of the pottery.

  How this illustrates the term: This situation showcases the Smithsonian's function of "maintaining... artifacts... for study, display, and circulation throughout the nation" (and internationally through loans) and its dedication to "engaging in educational programming and international cooperative research."