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Smithsonian Books

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Venture Into the Smithsonian's Underground Complex

Learn about the history and hidden treasures of the Smithsonian's Quadrangle

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The Paradox of the Declaration of Independence

The Smithsonian's secretary offers insight into one of the nation's most important documents

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The 'Friend to America' Who Helped Recognize the Country's Independence

Learn about the short-lived British prime minister who negotiated a peace treaty that ended the American Revolutionary War.

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Delicious Recipes for Your Next Juneteenth Celebration

Try these three sweet and savory recipes to mark the holiday!

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How the Language of Presidents and First Ladies Shapes the Country

Smithsonian curators explore the power of words from the White House

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Explore Amazing Contributions Made by Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders with Four Smithsonian Stories

Celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with Smithsonian objects

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The Man Behind Lincoln's Inauguration Photos

A new book celebrates the work of John Wood, the country's first federal photographer

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How the Smithsonian Conserved the Jefferson Bible

Thomas Jefferson cut and arranged selected Bible verses to create a chronological, edited story of Jesus' life—and the conservation treatment was just as painstaking

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The Legacy of the Cherry Blossom Festival

Washington, D.C., has one of the world's greatest celebrations of spring

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How Bessie Coleman Pleased the Crowds and Alienated the Critics

The daredevil aviator faces mixed public opinion in this excerpt from "Queen Bess"

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A Long Story of Freedom Seeking

A Smithsonian curator's insight into the Emancipation Proclamation

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How Black Women Have Changed the Face of Spaceflight

From Uhura to Katherine Johnson, learn about Black women's impact on space travel in this excerpt from "Afrofuturism."

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Benjamin Banneker's Almanac of Strange Dreams

The work of mathematician and astronomer Benjamin Banneker represents the fascinating relationship between science and religion

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We Wish You a Commercial Christmas

With the holiday season comes celebration, community, and cash.

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What It Took to Broker a Treaty Between the Young United States and Native Nations

Learn about the role of treaties in the relationship between early American settlers and Indigenous communities

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Honoring the Long History of Native American Service

In honor of Veterans Day and Native American Heritage Month, learn about the legacy of Native American service and the memorial that pays tribute to them.

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Amazing Astronaut Stories From the Space Shuttle Program

Former astronaut Tom Jones interviewed more than 130 fellow astronauts to create a definitive oral history of the space shuttle program.

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Ten Treasures from the National Air and Space Museum

No need to wait in line—you can experience the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum with these ten incredible artifacts!

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Remembering Johnny Cash's Activism 20 Years After His Death

While the country music star is beloved for his musical talents, he also used his fame to fight for prison reform and Native American rights

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How Einstein, Oppenheimer and Other Scientists Failed to Convince Americans About Controlling Nuclear Weapons

Masterminds in physics, these leading academics didn’t know how to use the powerful tool of a public service announcement in this excerpt from "How McGruff and the Crying Indian Changed America"

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