James Smithson
James Smithson was a British scientist and philanthropist, best known for founding the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. He was born in 1765 in France and spent much of his life in England. Smithson's legacy was established when he bequeathed his fortune to the United States to create an institution dedicated to the increase and diffusion of knowledge. His vision led to the establishment of the world's largest museum and research complex, which now includes 21 museums and the National Zoo, making significant contributions to education and cultural preservation.
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Recent news mentions
James Smithson was a British scientist whose funds established the Smithsonian in 1846.
Trump contra el Instituto Smithsonian: cuando la historia le molesta al poder
Costa Rica· 2025-08-26
The Smithsonian Institution is named after the British scientist James Smithson.
Ein Historiker, zu woke nach Donald Trumps Geschmack - Politik
Germany· 2025-08-20
James Smithson is noted for his founding grant that created the Smithsonian Institution.
Donald Trump has taken aim at what he calls the ‘woke’ view of American history
Canada· 2025-03-30
James Smithson bequeathed his estate for the purpose of establishing the Smithsonian Institution.
‘It reminds you of a fascist state’: Smithsonian Institution braces for Trump rewrite of US history | Trump administration
United Kingdom· 2025-03-30
James Smithson envisioned the Smithsonian Institution in the 19th century by bequeathing his estate to establish an institution for knowledge.
What is the Smithsonian Institution and why is it important? | Trump administrationUnited Kingdom· 2025-03-30
James Smithson was a British chemist who established the Smithsonian Institution in his will.
D. Trumpas paskelbė įsaką pašalinti „netinkamą ideologiją“ garsiuose JAV muziejuose
Lithuania· 2025-03-28
James Smithson was a British scientist who bequeathed his fortune to the United States to establish the Smithsonian Institution.
Трамп приказал Вэнсу убрать «ненадлежащую идеологию» из музеев и зоопарка
Belarus· 2025-03-28
The institution was established with funds from James Smithson, a British scientist who left his estate to the United States.
Trump executive order on Smithsonian targets funding for ‘improper ideology’ | Trump administrationUnited Kingdom· 2025-03-28