Explore History & Culture

National Portrait Gallery from Home

Every Eye Is Upon Me: First Ladies of the United States

The first major exhibition to explore the historical significance of this prominent position through the mode of portraiture is on view online.
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National Museum of American History

Smithsonian's History Explorer

Explore hundreds of free, innovative online resources for teaching and learning American history.
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Smithsonian American Women

Because of Her Story

Stories and objects from women who have shaped America as we know it through their work, creativity, and resolve.

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The Great Courses Daily: Smithsonian

Virtual Tour of the Historical and Cultural Gems of Washington, D.C.

Presented by Professor Richard Kurin, Ph.D., Smithsonian Distinguished Scholar and Ambassador-at-Large, find the free full 24-video series, as well as quizzes, reader polls, interactive maps, and further reading suggestions to help guide you through your virtual tour of our nation's capitol.
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Smithsonian Music

Engage with the Music at the Smithsonian

Nearly every genre of music, from every walk of life, from 10,000 B.C.E. to the present can be found at the Smithsonian.
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Smithsonian Center for Learning and Digital Access

Smithsonian Learning Lab

Discover more than a million resources, create personal collections and educational experiences, and share your work.
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Explore and discover featured content or search for your specific interest.

Sheet music for 1920 Ziefeld Follies by Irving Berlin

Smithsonian Spotlight

1920: A Year in the Collections

Explore items related to the year, including a pen used to sign the ratification of the 19th Amendment.

Smithsonian Spotlight

The Statue of Liberty: Symbol for a Nation

A gift from France in 1886, Lady Liberty in our collections and across America.

Smithsonian Spotlight

Holiday Shopping Bags

We can't do your shopping or returns for you, but we can hold the bags.

Smithsonian Spotlight

Country Music

Discover country music—an American art form with roots in folk and blues—as reflected in the Smithsonian's collections.

Smithsonian Spotlight

Playtime: Toys, Games, and Puzzles

From vintage to high-tech, there's something for every child (and child at heart) in our collections.

Smithsonian Folkways

Holiday Music Map

This holiday music sampler from the Smithsonian Folkways collection includes 56 songs from 24 nations on an interactive map.

Smithsonian Folkways

Arhoolie Records: 1960–Present

A sonic journey of roots musical traditions from the United States and Mexico—featuring the artistry of Lightnin’ Hopkins, Mance Lipscomb, Beausoleil, Flaco Jiminez, and many more.