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How do museums get funding?

Museums like the Smithsonian rely on a mix of government grants, private donations, and visitor income through tickets or gift shops. The President's order could impact the Smithsonian's public funding, as government support often comes with expectations about how history is presented. This balance of funding sources is crucial for their operation.

Stories that explain this

Trump orders Smithsonian to post signs warning of 'inaccurate' exhibits

Questions this opens up

Who funds national museums? Can museums make money? What are museum trusts?

Related explainers

Why are museums important? What is an artefact? What is 'curation'? Who decides history? What is an executive order? What is 'historical revisionism'? Can a president change history? What's a primary source?

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