Set the Record Straight on Native American History

By 1900, entire Native American tribes were confined to reservations, their languages and cultures were under assault by government agents. Yet today, millions of Native Americans keep their cultural traditions alive despite the stereotypes and misinformation that abound about Native Americans.

Native American history is American history and it is much richer and more complex than anyone was taught in school. The bigger story includes broken treaty relationships, war, forced cultural assimilation, great strength, and ultimately survival. Yet much of what we are still taught will have us believe that America was acquired solely with dignity through bravery and adventure.

We still have an opportunity to get it right and tell the bigger story of American history.

The National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) is providing Americans with a way to set the record straight. It is steadfastly committed to bringing all Americans in touch with their actual history and serves as an honest thoughtful conduit to Native cultures — present and past — in all their richness, depth, and diversity. It is a distinct and multifaceted cultural and educational enterprise and a resource for the hemisphere's Native communities.

Join the movement to set the record straight on Native American history — Sign today to add your voice!