A People’s Journey
A Nation’s Story
Welcome to the Smithsonian
National Museum of African American History & Culture
Explore
Powerful moments in African American
history, culture, and community.
Collection Stories
History
Carlotta Walls LaNier's Dress
In 1957, Carlotta Walls and six other African American students took on the difficult, dangerous task of integrating Little Rock Central High School. This dress tells the story of "Little Rock Nine" and the fight for a quality education for all Americans.
Sports
Carl Lewis
Carl Lewis won a staggering ten Olympic medals – nine of them gold – in track and field events while competing in four Olympic Games from 1984 to 1996.
History
The Great Mississippi River Flood of 1927
Devastating floods alter landscapes, ruin lives, and change the course of history.
African Muslims in Early America
Islam has been a piece of the American religious fabric since the first settlers arrived in North America.
Celebrate Black Music Month
The African American experience is the lens through which we understand what it is to be an American.
Lonnie G. Bunch III Founding Director, NMAAHC
