On August 10, 1846, President James K. Polk signed legislation creating the Smithsonian Institution. The institution was funded by an unusual bequest from British scientist James Smithson, who left his estate to the United States. Congress decided to use the funds to support an establishment for the “increase and diffusion of knowledge.” Over time, the Smithsonian grew into a large network of museums, research centers, and archives. Its collections cover natural history, art, aerospace, and American culture. The Smithsonian has become a central public educational resource for visitors from across the country.
