American Aspirations: A Nation in Pursuit
Summary
Host Lizzie Peabody interviews Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch about his curated exhibition, *American Aspirations*, celebrating the nation's 250th anniversary. They discuss key artifacts like Jefferson’s desk, Amelia Earhart’s flight suit, and an Edison light bulb to explore themes of democracy, ingenuity, and hope. Bunch emphasizes viewing America as a work in progress, using objects to humanize history and inspire visitors to pursue the nation's founding ideals.
Topics discussed
Introduction and welcome to Secretary Lonnie Bunch
The concept of American Aspirations and curatorial vision
The power of objects and the Jefferson desk
Backstage tour: The desk and the Declaration engraving
Amelia Earhart's flight suit and unfinished stories
The 1860 Lincoln-Hamlin campaign banner
Edison's light bulb and American ingenuity
The Statue of Liberty model and broken chains
America as a work in progress and founding ideals
The role of museums, education, and conclusion
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